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James Henry Oliver

1939 - 2020

James Henry Oliver obituary, 1939-2020, Thunder Bay, ON

BORN

1939

DIED

2020

James Oliver Obituary

James Henry Oliver, age 80, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2020, at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital, after a short battle with cancer. Jim was born on June 10, 1939, on his big sister Arlene's fourth birthday. The only boy in a family of three sisters, he was sometimes doted on and sometimes out- numbered. Jim grew up mostly in the Port Arthur and Current River area, spending some time in Toronto as a young man. In 1965, he married the love of his life, Isobel Gordon, and together they raised three children and welcomed six grandchildren.

Over the years, Jim worked for the CPR as a telegrapher, Western Automatic Beverages and Klomp-Wakefield Dairies (later Beatrice, Parmalat). For over twenty years, Jim enjoyed his country milk route to Kakabeka and Murillo and chatting with the people he met and served.

Jim was an avid reader who enjoyed gardening, cooking, country and western music, PBS mysteries, a good game of Crib and most recently painting with water colours. He enjoyed many a coffee and conversation with the friends of his sons at the family home and later with his new found friends at his condominium.

Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Isobel; children Cathy Kurish (Rob), Bruce (Tanya), Rick (Kristen); grandchildren Jacob, Ben, Hannah, Elizabeth, Carter and Cale; sisters, Arlene Hardick and Karen Davis (Bob); sisters-in-law, Gwen Everts (Don), Robertta Pajunen (Veikko) and many nieces and nephews who affectionately called him “Uncle Jimmy”.

Predeceased by mother Olivia Tennant and step-father Jim; father James Howard Oliver; in-laws, Isobel and Bruce Gordon; sister Marilyn Lemcke; brothers-in-law Bob Hardick and Wayne Lemcke.

The family would like to thank Dr. Anthes and the doctors and nurses of the oncology ward at TBRH, for the excellent care they provided Jim over the last two weeks, during these very difficult times in our world. Thank you also to the family and friends who have reached out with phone calls, texts and emails during a time of social isolation. We appreciate it more than you know.

Cremation has taken place and a private burial with immediate family will occur. A Celebration of Jim's life will be planned for a later date. Donations to Teen Challenge or the charity of your choice would be appreciated

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”'
Psalm 91: 1 and 2

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Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Mar. 25, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for James Oliver

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14 Entries

Donald Everts

March 25, 2023

Thinking of you on this March 23, rest in peace Uncle Jimmy.
Don, Deb Everts and family.

audrey HANSEN

March 30, 2020

To Isabelle and family.

I just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear of the passing of Jim. We were neighbours on Cumming Street for a long time. I have plants in my back yard that will always remind me of Jim and how kind he was for giving them to me.

I know hard this is for all of you, and only wish you the best.

Audrey Hansen

Robertta and

March 27, 2020

Our brother in law Jimmy lived a long life, was taken very good care of by all his family. As the days and weeks pass, and as the family returns to life's routine, may you all continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends, I know it will be difficult Isobel, he will be missed.

March 27, 2020

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

March 27, 2020

Isobel and family I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband
My thoughts are with you. You have many wonderful memories to think back on. May that give you strength to carry on. Sincerely. Brenda Wright

Gwen&Don Everts

March 27, 2020

Our Jim was a great guy, He loved his kids and my sister Isobel, he will be missed by us all, I will miss his funny comments and the many dinners and parties we had.

Gail Teed

March 27, 2020

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. It's been many years since I last saw him but have never forgotten either of you. May your many happy memories comfort you in this time.

Gail (Thoms) Teed

March 26, 2020

Isobel
So very sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved Jimmy.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you, your children & grandchildren as you each gradually adjust to the absence of Jim's dynamic physical presence.
Just the mention of his name brings a smile to my lips as I envisage his lively brown eyes & teasing grin & know that I could have likely expected a chuckle invoking quip momentarily.
May your faith, the caring support of others, & many wonderful memories bring you comfort & peace as you navigate this time of sadness & loss.
Much love,
Pat Wong, Welwyn, Tegan & Leland & family

Huguette Paré

March 26, 2020

My deepest condolences Isobel and family in the passing of Jim. Even though I have known him for a short time, he was a kind individual who loved a good laugh and enjoyed being part of our coffee group here at Glengowan. He surely will be missed. My thoughts and prayers to family.

March 25, 2020

Isobel so sorry for your loss condolences to you and your family you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time Our sincerest sympathy, cousins Susan and Nancy

March 25, 2020

Dear Isobel we are so sorry to hear about Jim. Our thoughts and prayers go outto you and and your family. Chris and Sharon Maurik.

Don Edward

March 25, 2020

Great host, I stayed in their home over 50 years ago with my father Don Otway

Donna Otway-Krambeck

March 25, 2020

Heartfelt condolences to Isobel and family. May you all find peace in your hearts.

Joanne DellaMattia

March 25, 2020

Isobel and family. We are so very sorry for your loss. We will remember Jim as always smiling and a very kind man. You all are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. With our sincerest sympathy, Donnie Otway and family

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