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WILFRED GORDON JAMES
Date of Passing: Dec 29, 2018
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryWILFRED GORDON JAMES The family of Wilfred Gordon James announces his passing on December 29, 2018. He is survived by his four children: David (Gloria), Carolyn Townsend (Wayne), Kathy Requeima (Joel) and George (Karin); his 11 grandchildren: Jamie, Lauren, Mark, Victoria, Elizabeth, Andrew, Matthew, Jillian, Jacqueline, Alexander and Patrick, and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by his sister and brother-in-law Ruth and Allen Fowlis, nieces and nephews. Wilfred was predeceased by his wife Dorothy, and his mother and father, Eleanor and George James. Wilfred was born and raised on the family dairy farm on the outskirts of Transcona. His upbringing taught him the value and the rewards of hard work. Early adulthood saw him attending the University of Manitoba's Agriculture Diploma program, followed by his return to the family farm. During that time, he enjoyed trips to visit his Uncle Roland and Aunt Etta in Detroit. One of those visits would change and shape his future in a way he would reflect on and marvel about all his life. He met the love of his life, Dorothy, a city girl who would follow him to the prairies and become his partner in life and farming. Wilfred's professional accomplishments included involvement in or contribution to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, the James Farms Ltd. Award for recognition of achievement in farm business management in the Diploma Program of the University of Manitoba, as well as hosting a stop of the program's compulsory summer tour. He was a founding member of the Dugald Costume Museum and served on its board of directors for many years. Wilfred and Dorothy continued to work hard and grow their business, enjoying travels to the US, Mexico and Europe, and being regular patrons of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. In 1980, Wilfred and Dorothy bought their cottage which became a focal point for their family and friends for the next 30 years. Wilfred and Dorothy took immense pride in watching their family grow and thrive. Nothing made them happier than being surrounded by their family, especially their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wilfred and Dorothy did absolutely everything together. Dorothy's passing in September of this year saw them apart for the first time in 65 years. Despite the separation, Wilfred soldiered on and continued to enjoy his family. After a very brief illness, they are now together again. Our family wishes to extend our sincere thanks and grateful appreciation to his family physician, Dr. Dennis Caners for his many years of excellent care and most recently, to the wonderful staff at River Ridge for their compassionate care and going beyond the call of duty to look after Wilfred. We are most appreciative. Funeral service to be held on Thursday, January 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Transcona Memorial United Church, 209 Yale Avenue West, with a viewing commencing at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, if you so wish, donations may be made to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank or the Transcona Memorial United Church Building Fund.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 02, 2019
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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Wilfred was one of the kindest and sunniest, most thoughtful people I've known for my entire life, and losing both him and Dorothy this year is hard to believe and accept. The world has lost an amazing person in Wilfred. His spirit and inner wisdom were so strong and steadfast - he was always happy, twinkling and reflective, knowing just what to say or do when life threw him a challenge or curve ball. He always welcomed me like one of his own, even if we hadn't seen each other for a few years. His sense of humour was a delight and no doubt played a great part in his children growing into the thoughtful and successful people they are today. Wilfred and Dorothy's strong presence and contributions to the entire extended family, James farm and the wider community helped make Transcona and farming what they are today. Their efforts to host family reunions over several years at the farm has enabled the James family descendants, from 1886 to now and spread far and wide, be aware of each other and connected in a wonderful way. Rest in peace Wilfred, knowing all the seeds you and Dorothy sowed over the years will keep growing and produce wonderful harvests in so many ways, for years to come. - Posted by: Pauline James Curtis (cousin) on: Jan 04, 2019
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The family reunions at the family farm or at the lake will always be cherished. There hospitality was way beyond words. Seeing all of the different parts of James Families Clan. Remembering over 100 of us. Being there when the James Farm was honored Centennial farm plaque when the reunion transpired. All I can say is the memories that were made shared and the spirit of all the families that came. Thank you WILFRED AND DOROTHY JAMES you are pure family love to us all! Prayers to the immediate and extended families. Love, Becki (James) Jaeger, Mike & Jennifer (Jaeger-Jimenez) Brinley, Scott Jaeger, Emiliano Jimenez Sr., Emiliano Jimenez Jr. and Alejandro Jimenez. - Posted by: Becki Jaeger (Michigan cousins) on: Jan 03, 2019
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Sending our deepest condolences to David, Carolyn, Kathy, George and all your families, on the passing of your dear father and grandfather. We are saddened by the passing of Dorothy and Wilfred, our lifelong friends from back in the 1970s when they visited our home with a group of 4-H members and we returned with them and our 4-H members for what was to be a trip of a lifetime and true friendship developed. We visited the farm years after at harvest time and have so many wonderful memories of your wonderful family and farm. Was so happy to speak to him only a few days before Christmas and he was on his way to a doctor's appointment with Carolyn. God love him and all of you, you're in our thoughts today and tomorrow as you put him to rest with his sweet Dorothy. Hugs to all. love Willie and Alan. - Posted by: Alan and Willie Loder, Summerside Newfoundland (Lifelong 4-H friends) on: Jan 02, 2019
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To the family, sincere condolences on your Dad’s passing, but joy for a long life well lived. Stopping by the farm to pickup sunflower seeds will not be the same. We enjoyed our short visits with both your Dad and Mom. We regret that we are unable to attend the funeral tomorrow. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Jack & Barb Ross, Kenora, ON - Posted by: Jack & Barbara Ross (Long time friends) on: Jan 02, 2019