Service:
For now, Jim’s family will remember him privately,
but in time, Jim will be interred at the Evergreen
Cemetery, Blenheim.
Jim passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family at the age of 75.
Jim worked at the Blenheim News Tribune for a number of years as a press operator. He was very proud to have printed two of Alvin Armstrong’s books; “The First 200 Years” is about the history of Blenheim and the second “A Lantern At The Gate”.
Jim loved building and fixing things. He worked for Murray Payne construction for a number of years, as well had his own renovation company. Jim finished out his career at Great Lakes Pigs where he enjoyed working with the pigs, as well as fixed things.
Jim was a long-time member of Br.185 Legion, Kinsman Club of Blenheim, Canadian Ornamental Pheasant and Game Bird Association. He was an avid horseman and belonged to horseback riding clubs where he participated in many horse shows. Jim’s love of horses led to getting into harness racing where he obtained his Horse Owner Groom License. Jim was a true outdoorsman and was happiest when outside snowmobiling, skating, hiking, ice fishing, smelting in Erieau, hunting, fishing, golfing and jumping on a horse and riding all night. He especially loved spending time at the farm. A favorite indoor pastime was playing darts and cards. Jim treasured his time spent at the “Beer Church” with his friends.
Jim is survived by his wife, Alicia of 52 years, his children, Jeffrey, Desiree (Justin), Johnathon (Jen), Justin (Kaitlyn), as well as his grandchildren who he loved dearly; Alexie, Taylor, Abbigail, Austin, Gabriela, Theo, Lyna, Sicily, Nash, and Connor. Jim was delighted when he became a great-grandfather to his special little buddy, Owen.
Jim is also survived by his sister Heather (Bob) and brother Fred, sister-in-law’s, Rosemary, Janine (Clyde), Alison (John), Michele (Gary) and brother-in-law David. Pre-deceased by mother and father Jim and Donna Burchiel, mother-in-law and father-in-law Alison and George Hill, brother Curtis and brother-in-law Alan Hill.
For now, Jim’s family will remember him privately, but in time, Jim will be interred at the Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim.
