WALTER BOUTILIER

BOUTILIER (The 4th) 1947 ~ 2026
It is with broken hearts that we announce that our beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, Walter James Boutilier has passed away on January 31, 2026. "Jim" as he preferred to be called, was born August 1, 1947 and was loved by everyone who he met and dealt with. He was charismatic, always full of love, smiles and stories aplenty and he had a heart of gold. Jim could always make you smile and laugh.

One of the greatest moments in his life was meeting his beautiful wife Eva. Their love story was one of the best. Jim was always proud to say Eva was "The One". They spent many years together travelling to visit family and friends and making unforgettable memories along the way. They could always be seen holding hands with a special look in their eyes.

Within his bountiful life he had a strong part in raising 13 beautiful children who always made him proud; Nancy (Gord), Tammy (Tyler), Susie (Gino), Roger (Sheila), Jay (Robin), Mike (Shari), Richard (Yvonne), David (Karen), Jason (Patricia), Kyle, Garret, Alison (Gavin), Stephanie (Ryan), along with 17 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren who will carry on his legacy.

Every chapter of Jim's life was an adventure. Out of necessity his passion for work started out at a very young age of 13. Throughout his never ending career he became a man of many talents. He travelled across the country starting in a donut shop in Toronto to candling in the Prairies, a ranch hand out West, mining in the Yukon and then moving into the trucking industry which took him around the world meeting many people along the way. Jim then introduced Kenworth Truck Sales to Thunder Bay. The grand opening event took place in the late 90's on the corner of Twincity Crossroads and Arthur Street. It was a large 3 day event where he made a lasting impression in the trucking industry in Thunder Bay. He was always lending a helping hand and working on the next "Big Deal of the Day", Driving his own bus!!

Jim's determination carried him through his health struggles later in life. He surpassed all medical expectations. We all said Jim had 27 lives, but this one couldn't be beat.

Jim's devotion to his family gave him strength to keep going until the end. His favourite comment daily to all was "Have I told you today, I/ We love you" to which we would respond "We love you more!" Jim will be greatly missed by all. A man loved by many, forgotten by none!

Jim is survived by his loving wife Eva, his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren (Grandpa we will miss your Manitoba visits), several siblings, as well as Eva's family.

He was predeceased by his parents, two of his siblings and numerous other relatives.

A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the Slovak Legion Solarium from 1pm - 4pm.

The family would like to thank Dr. Chan and Dr. Sellick and the medical personnel from the Cancer Centre, Emergency Department and 2A for the ongoing care shown to Jim over the years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army Journey to Life Thunder Bay or to the Canadian Cancer Society, all of which will be greatly appreciated.

"Go ride those Golden Highways Jim" "We Love You"
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com