JAMES (JIM) GEORGE FUSTEY

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JAMES (JIM) GEORGE FUSTEY

Jim passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026 at the age of 94. He was born March 19, 1931, in Inglis, Manitoba. Jim was predeceased by his wife Joan (nee Russell), who he married on July 18, 1959. They were long-time residents of Winnipeg until they relocated to Surrey, BC in 1989.

He will be lovingly remembered by, daughter Cheryl, son Alan, daughter-in-law Mary and grandchildren, Andrew and Meghan.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Mary Fustey, his brother, Bill, and by his two sisters, Eleanor Marino, Margaret Semenchuk. He is survived by his sister Doris Osesky.

Jim had a 45-year career in the movie theater industry. He joined Famous Players in 1950 as a manager trainee at the Metropolitan Theatre in Winnipeg. He held various managerial positions with Famous Players in Thunder Bay, Moose Jaw and Winnipeg, in addition to his role as publicity and promotions director, Prairie Region.

In 1963, Jim joined Odeon Morton Theaters as manager of the Odeon drive-in. In 1965 was appointed general manager of the company. When Odeon Morton Theaters became part of Canadian Odeon, he assumed the duties of Manitoba/Saskatchewan district supervisor and continued in that position after a merger with Cineplex Odeon in 1984.

In 1989 he was appointed as vice-president, theater operations, Western Canada by Cineplex Odeon and moved to Vancouver where he continued to reside after his retirement.

Jim's efforts on behalf of the movie theatre industry also include his service as a director of the Canadian Picture Pioneers, president of the Motion Picture Association of Manitoba (1979-82) and Western vice-president of the Motion Pictures Theater Association of Canada (1979-82). His dedication was recognized with an Ancillary Award from the Motion Picture Pioneers in 1988.

Jim was a cat lover who also enjoyed reading and gardening. He always viewed Winnipeg as his home, and he returned frequently to spend time with his grandchildren. A family trip to Maui to celebrate Jim and Joan's 50th wedding anniversary was a cherished memory.

He was an encouraging father and husband who was always available to offer his guidance.

When his wife Joan was diagnosed with ALS, he acted as her primary care giver. It was a selfless act that showed his unwavering commitment to his wife and family.

He suffered from a long-term hearing impairment that grew progressively worse as he aged, but he dealt with it through humour and grace.

Our family would like to thank the staff of Suncreek Village for their care of Dad in his final months and the Dauncey family for their compassion for Dad and Mom during their retirement years in BC.

Cremation has taken place and he will be interned at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Winnipeg. Our family will gather privately to celebrate Dad's life and the lasting impression he made on all of us. Those wishing to donate in his memory may do so to the to the charity of their choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 30, 2026