James Holmes

1934 - 2016

HOLMES: Dr. James Holmes. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jim Holmes on June 3rd, 2016. To carry on his memory are his best friend and bride of 55 years, Dixie, whom he loved more than life itself, his daughters Lisa (Brian), Shelley (Ron), Jackie (Mark), and his son Robert (Theresa). He also had a brood of grandchildren who adored him and who were the recipients of many frockles from Grandpa: Riley, Jessica, Skylar, Josh, Brett, Matt, Reece, Koen, Sean and Chase. His sister Carol (Wilson), nephews Scott and Kent, and many friends will help us keep the stories of Dad alive for years. Dad was a man of many talents: he practiced medicine in Kelowna for over 30 years, and was instrumental in bringing the Cancer Clinic to our community. He started the chemotherapy unit here, operating it out of a little ward with two beds and two chemo chairs. He cared deeply for his patients, treating them and their families with kindness and respect. He was a sportsman, loving camping, fishing, hunting and the great outdoors, and he shared that passion with his family. Many a summer was spent camping in remote areas where Dad taught us to rough it, to fly fish, and to appreciate the little things in life. Winter weekends were spent skiing at Big White, and winter evenings at the hill were filled with music, board games, and laughter. He enjoyed many hunting trips to southern Alberta with Mom and the Tisdales. They built a lifetime of memories on those trips, and even brought home birds from time to time! Dad took great joy in preparing his prairie chicken casserole for us following those trips. Dad was not caught up in material things. He loved long walks with his springer spaniel, Jiggs, even longer talks with his family, and any day spent at the cabin on Kalamalka Lake was a good day. If reading mystery novels and cabin naps were Olympic sports, Dad would surely be a gold medalist. His gift to us all was his love of family, and his ability to offer sage advice, sprinkled with humour. He was a kind, generous man, and will be missed so very much. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Okanagan Rail Trail Initiative in Dad's name. We will have a celebration of life on Monday June 13th from 3-5 p.m. at the Kelowna Golf & Country Club. No suits or ties allowed, as Dad would not approve! Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com. Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299