JAMES THOMAS O'BRIEN !

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

• I am very saddened at finding out the passing of James. We knew each other 32 years or so. We met when I was 11 and he was 14 in an area called Westdale when I moved into Townhouses in that area and he kept me enthralled and entertained with his many exotic animals in his home such as snakes, Piranha, and a Tarantula. He also had a cat. He loved all types of animals big and small and we would play Atari games and goof around. He opened up my mind to many concepts and experiences in such a positive way. He was always riding his bike around looking like Billy Idol with his spiked hair and I'd always tag along as I looked up to him in so many ways. In time I unfortunately moved but we kept in touch and he would often ride and visit me in West Kildonan and we would go hang out downtown at a park in the Exchange district. In time we drifted but got back in touch when he lived in the Village but our lives being very different we again lost touch until a couple years ago and stated talking on Facebook periodically. He and I really had some wonderful talk and sorted out a lot of old ghosts. He always inspired me how he lived life to the fullest and was so positive even with what he was dealing with. I wish I told him how much he really meant to me and I am somewhat angry at myself I didn't. I hope he knows now and I am glad he is free of his condition. I imagine he is up in Heaven now riding the bumpy waves of clouds having one hell of a time with a big grin on his face! I miss you already James..thanks for all the wonderful memories and chats. I love you so much and always will!! - Posted by: Audra Kalenchuk (Friend (ex-Teenage Girlfriend)) on: Feb 02, 2014

• Our family was shocked and very saddened to hear of my cousin Jimmy's passing. As children we were often hanging out at our Grandparents' place on Summer vacations. His love of life, that smile, and his passion for biking is what I remember most. I wish we had kept in touch over the years. It is hard to believe you are gone. It made for a sad, quiet New Year for our family. Our condolences to you Aunt Joyce, Uncle Jimmy and of course Kathleen. Until we meet again, may you rest in peace Jimmy. Love, Cathy <3 - Posted by: Cathy Mansley (Cousin) on: Jan 16, 2014

• My pal James. I met James through the vehicle industry during his first foray into the world of auto Magic. we were roommates in Edmonton and that is where i got to know this unique soul. He helped me through one of those teenage/20 year old break ups with a long time girlfriend by forcing me to look at life differently, with a simpler filter. although our paths rarely crossed after the year and a half we lived together, i still get a lopsided grin on my face remebering what a couple of donkeys we were at times, and i will always be grateful for that. just looking at this picture and that grin makes me think we are teaming up for some shenanigans. see you on the other side dude. - Posted by: Geoff (Pal) on: Jan 10, 2014

• James' family and my family spent many summers at Wendigo Beach wben we were children..he sure knew his way around that place...and if he didn't know it, we discovered things together. James...you may not know it at the time...you taught me so much about adventure...you were my peaceful place when my household was not so peaceful..we never fought, argued or disagreed...we just had fun :) Thanks for the wonderful memories that I will always cherish...too bad we lost touch...would have been great to have known you as an adult :) Rest In Peace James xoxo - Posted by: Yvonne St. Laurent (childhood friend) on: Jan 10, 2014

• My heart goes out to Jim's family. He was a true friend and challenged anything in his path. He was so positive and the world needs more people like Jim. Jim coached me so to say, when my dad's kidneys also failed. I met Jim and his parents through the vehicle industry many years ago. I cherished his friendship and enjoyed listening to his stories. May u meet ur pup in heaven, meet my dad again and ride amongst the clouds. I miss you already Jim. U will be in my heart always. - Posted by: Maureen Smith (Friend) on: Jan 10, 2014

• Sending you all my heartfelt condolences ... May he rest in the arms of the angels. - Posted by: Misty Fehus (friend of Kathy) on: Jan 09, 2014

• I am a fellow dialysis patient that was inspired by James. He made me want to push myself and for that I am eternally grateful. I only knew him for a short while but am blessed to have known him at all. God bless his family. - Posted by: Ron Krokey (friend) on: Jan 09, 2014

• I am so sorry for James' untimely passing, my condolences and heartfelt well wishes go out to his family and many friends, one of my true regrets in life was not knowing him better, or not having the opportunity to meet him in person. He was truly one of the good guys. - Posted by: Jeff Heffernan (friend from FB blogs on Kidney disease) on: Jan 09, 2014