Jim McCurdy

Peacefully, with family at his side, James Scott McCurdy of Erieau passed away on Wednesday, January 17th 2018.  Born in Sydney, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, 83 years ago, to Herbert Victor (1971) and Bessie McCurdy (Scott) (1988), older brother to Ronald Herbert McCurdy (2017).  He is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years Candace Ann (Irwin), their children Christopher (Nancy), Erin Claeys (Bob) and Kevin (Sue) as well as his eight grandchildren: Connor and Katie; Megan, Michael and Andrew Claeys; Justine, Brianne and Libby.  Also survived by mother in law Neva Irwin, sisters in law Lyn Green (Peter) and Joan McCurdy, nephew Jason Green (Cherie) and niece Sarah Jacobsen (Pat).

Jim was raised and received his schooling in Chatham.  He served in the Royal Canadian Navy (1953-58) before returning to Chatham where he worked for the T.H. Taylor Company.  Jim met Candy in 1957 and they were married in the Trinity Anglican Church at Blenheim.  Life was to continue in Blenheim for the next 35 years.  He was employed by E.M. Warwick eventually leading to a career in the seed corn business.  He became president and co-owner of the Warwick Seed Company, employing many youth with detasseling jobs.

Jim was very active in the community.  He was a founding member of the Blenheim Golf Club, president of the Kinsman Club and member of the K-40 and Blenheim Curling Club.  He was treasurer of the Blenheim Public School Board, chairman and member of the Legion Villa board of directors and a council member for the village of Erieau.  He has been an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 185 for over 50 years.

Retirement years in Erieau have been enjoyed with family and friends – life on the lake.  Jim requested a private family gathering and cremation, which has taken place.  Celebration of his life continues as we reflect on his love, compassion and kindness.  Friends wishing to remember Jim with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Blenheim Freedom Library & Military Musuem, the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 185 or the Cancer Society.

Jim’s favourite Irish blessing:

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.