James Sinclair GIRVAN

GIRVAN, James Sinclair Henderson
Halifax, passed away on May 1st, 2017. Born in New Glasgow, he was the son of the late Charles and Margaret (Henderson) Girvan. He received his early education in Westville and later in Amherst where the family relocated. James entered Mt. Allison University in 1944 and graduated in 1948 with a BSc and an Engineering diploma. He was much involved in art and music while at university and led the Student Jazz Orchestra in his final year. In 1948 he entered McGill University to pursue his artistic talents and graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. He received a scholarship upon graduation for study in Europe and in 1954 he established an architectural practice in Montreal. In 1962 he married Betty Profitt of Freetown PEI and they enjoyed many fulfilling years together until her death in 2007. The architectural firm grew to include four partners, and they designed buildings throughout Canada. During this time he developed a close involvement with the Montreal artistic community which led to many years of service as director of Arts Westmount, served as an advisor to the Arts Club of Montreal and becoming a member of La Society Canadienne de l'Aquarelle (SCA). In 1986 he was awarded a Fellowship in the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada for Outstanding Achievement. Retiring in 1993, he and Betty relocated to Halifax. There James pursued his second career, in watercolour painting. In 2002 he was elected to membership in the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC).

In 2012 he married Jennifer Lee Hastey of Quebec, and together they enjoyed many adventures, including sojourns in Florida and Montreal, the artistic life of Halifax, and in particular the offerings of Symphony Nova Scotia, for which they provided welcome support. Their life together was short but precious, and together they made the most of every day, each day a gift. James will be missed but his buildings and his paintings will last for many years to come as a testament to his creative endeavours. James was a most remarkable man.

A memorial celebration will be held on Friday, May 5 from 4-6pm at J A Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax. Donations in lieu of flowers to Symphony Nova Scotia and the Salvation Army.

Online condolences can be made by visiting: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com