James Colin Heaney

James Colin Heaney

James Heaney Obituary

Published by Vancouver Sun from Mar. 1 to Mar. 3, 2007.

HEANEY _ James (Jim) Colin October 8, 1932 - February 23, 2007 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Jim on Friday, February 23, 2007 at the age of 74. He was born in Alexandria, Scotland and is predeceased by his parents, David and Jessie Heaney and his stepmother, Helen McLaren. He immigrated to Canada in 1957 after falling in love with Vancouver through his association with the Royal Air Force. In 1967 he became partner in the international accounting firm then known as Coopers and Lybrand. In 1979, he was elected Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of British Columbia. Jim was passionate about boating and was extremely active in the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club where he served as Commodore in 1983. Jim loved life and enjoyed socializing with his many friends. He had a wonderful sense of Scottish humour and always had an opinion and a kind word to share. Jim will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by many people including his wife Helen of 45 years; his daughter, Sharon (Dave), grandchildren Bethany, Becca and Nathan; and son, David. In respecting Jim's wishes, there will be an Eight Bells service held at the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club (Jericho - 3811 Point Grey Road) on Sunday, March 11 at 1:30 pm. If so desired, donations can be made in Jim's memory to the Salvation Army (#101 - 3833 Henning, Burnaby, BC (604-299-3908) or the charity of your choice. Kearney Funeral Services 604-736-0268

View All Photos

Add Photos to Memorial

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Heaney's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 19, 2007

Sven & Tuuli Halle posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2007

Wendy Merkley posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2007

Cate Jones posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Sven & Tuuli Halle

March 19, 2007

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.

Wendy Merkley

March 9, 2007

Jimmy was more then an Uncle, more then my aunt's husband. While the humour was captivating, the larger than life personality undeniable, Jimmy's strongest assett in my life was as a positive role model...he taught me about respect, for there were no shennanigans or the fortitude of Ben Loman could be seen in his eyes (momentarily, of course). He taught me about stability and dedication to a relationship (after 30 years together, my husband and I seem like radicals in today's world). Jimmy reinforced that no matter your differences, people can get along together.

My husband, Glen and our daughter, Liz, felt the same of Jimmy. What a treat to go to the Heaney's!!! The moon may have come oot on the gloamin' for Jimmy, but Aunty Helen will carry the spirit of Jimmy with her (as well as her own wonderful humour and personality) ... visits will not be lacking because of Jimmy's passing.

Uncle Jimmy, some Gaelic words for you that you seemed to abide your life by:

Tha gach uile dhuine air a bhreth saor agus co-ionnan ann an urram 's ann an còirichean. Tha iad air am breth le reusan is le cogais agus mar sin bu chòir dhaibh a bhith beò nam measg fhein ann an spiorad bràthaireil.

Translation
All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

Cate Jones

March 9, 2007

Jimmy was simply the very best uncle anyone could have asked for. He and H-Berg had the world's most welcoming home that was always open to those rambunctous Jones kids (even the pinko one!). I consider myself to be very, very lucky to have been his niece and the recipient of his love and generousity. I miss you Jimmy as do Shane and Shayla!

Phil Clark

March 3, 2007

When you walked into a room full of people you would surely find yourself visiting with Jim and even though others would want his attention you would find it hard to share him with others. Jim was a man to emulate, he was uplifting always, he was devoted to his family and his adoration for Helen was worn on his sleeve. An encounter with Jim, though far too seldom in recent years, was nothing short of pure pleasure. I’ll miss the brogue and the twinkle.

Helen Beattie

March 1, 2007

I am saddened to read of the loss of Jim. I lost contact with Jim for about 15 years. He was a wonderful man and as was said in the obituary what a wonderful sense of Scottish Humour!

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in James Heaney's name

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Heaney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Heaney's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 19, 2007

Sven & Tuuli Halle posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2007

Wendy Merkley posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2007

Cate Jones posted to the memorial.