JAMES GRAHAM

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JAMES GRAHAM We are saddened to announce the passing of our son and brother Jim Graham, in Winnipeg, on Wednesday, June 20, 2007. Jim is survived by his parents, James and Victoria Graham; his brother Robin (Janet), and his nephew and niece, Carter and Samantha. Jim was born in Winnipeg on March 29, 1949 and, except for a short period, he lived his entire life in the Winnipeg area. He attended elementary and middle school in Brooklands and then completed his high school education at Miles MacDonell in East Kildonan. After high school he went to the University of Winnipeg for two years before moving into the workforce. At the time of his passing he had been a long-term employee of Emco, serving in a number of capacities including salesman and purchasing agent. Jim was blessed with extraordinary talents. He was an exceptional musician with an encyclopedic knowledge of music. His skill on the piano was truly astounding. He was comfortable with many different styles ranging from classical to bluegrass to jazz. This musical talent led to many gigs, beginning in high school with school plays, the Glee Club concerts and extending to his last role as a member of Uptown Grass. In addition to his musical gift, Jim possessed what can only be described as a photographic memory which was as deep as it was wide. From history to literature, from music to technical facts on topics as diverse as electronics, plumbing or firearms, Jim had a library of facts and figures at his disposal waiting for discussion or debate. Those who received a gift or a card from Jim would realize how much thought and effort he put into selecting the present. He had an unerring sense when it came to knowing the right gift for the person. Jim's great love outside of music and reading was the family farm near Carberry, Manitoba. As a young boy he often stayed with his grandparents, and later in his teens learned how to drive a tractor while helping his grandfather in the summer. As the years passed Jim maintained his strong ties to the farm. Long after the passing of his grandparents he continued to help his father and mother maintain the farmstead. Each weekend and many summer holidays would find Jim at the farm cutting grass, fixing buildings or just relaxing with a newspaper and a cold drink on the verandah. Jim was a source of enormous strength and comfort to his mom and dad. He was always available to run errands, help with odd jobs or just keep them company. It may come as a surprise to some but Jim's sometimes gruff exterior hid a very sensitive and caring person whose family came first. He was a reliable rock in a sea of waves ready at a moments notice to offer solace to those in need. We will miss Jim incredibly. He will forever be in our minds and hearts The funeral service will be held at Grey Street United Church (Sandhurst and Grey Street) at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 25, 2007. Viewing for family and friends preceding the service. Interment will take place at 3:30 p.m. at the Carberry Cemetery, Carberry, Manitoba. All are welcome to attend. Arrangements entrusted to: Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 4000 Portage Ave. www.chapellawn.mb.ca 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 23, 2007