James (Jim) Tonn

James Leonard (Jim) Tonn, former Mayor of Coquitlam and a professional football player, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service and sportsmanship. Born in Winnipeg, Jim was a standout athlete, playing for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the B.C. Lions in the Canadian Football League (CFL) from 1957 top 1959 before transitioning to a brief career in sales followed by three decades dedicated to public service. In 1971, he was elected as a Coquitlam City Councillor and the following year, as Mayor, a position he held with distinction until 1983. During his time in office, Jim was involved in numerous municipal leadership roles, including serving as President of the Union of B.C. Municipalities and Deputy Chairman of the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD). He additionally served the City of Coquitlam as the City Manager from 1983 to 1990. He retired from his role as an Appeal Commissioner at the Worker's Compensation Board of BC in 2001.



Predeceased by his beloved wife Gail, parents Anne and George, brother Bill, and sister Marie, Jim is survived by his daughters Susan and Lori (Mike) Breckon, grandchildren Christina, Steven (Hallie), Kristopher, and great-granddaughter Lola, his last love Claire, and many nieces, nephews and friends. His contributions to Coquitlam and the wider B.C. community will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

There will be no service at Jim's request. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Langley Hospice Society.