JAMES MCKENZIE ADAMS (JIM)

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JAMES MCKENZIE ADAMS (JIM) With great sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of Jim on February 4, 2005 with his family at his side after a courageous fight with lung disease and cancer. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his mother Velma Irene; wife Irene and their daughter Melanie (Jeremy) and grandchildren, Danielle, Brittany and Gavin; son Jim (Corinne) and grandchildren, Aaron, Marshall and Tessa; daughter Penny (Rick); sister Luella - Tiny as he called her (Jack); foster daughter Joy-Ann (Preston); sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, extended family and numerous friends. He was predeceased by his father, brother Dean and most recently his mother-in-law Anne, brother-in-law Mike and grand-nephew Liam. Jim was born in Winnipeg on June 12, 1923 and grew up in Regina. At age 7 the family moved to St. Elizabeth where he got his introduction to softball as batboy for the local team his father managed - so began his lifetime love of the sport. In 1936, the family moved back to Winnipeg where Jim completed his education and on June 17, 1942 he enlisted in the RCAF serving his country until September 8, 1945, including overseas duty during the Second World War. After the war, he worked as an electrician's helper - then started his career with Transport Canada Air Services where he retired after 35 years of service. His work afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Western Canada, NW Ontario and the Arctic. Sports were a large part of Jim's life. Softball was the sport of choice and he dedicated many years as a participant, coach, builder and fan. He was President of the Winnipeg Men's Industrial Fastball League and Softball Manitoba and was very proud of his inductions into the Softball Manitoba, Softball Canada and Manitoba Sports Halls of Fame. He was the first Honorary Life Member of Softball Manitoba and until his illness progressed, was actively involved on the Board of The Manitoba Softball Hall of Fame and Museum. He cherished the many friends he made while involved in the sport. His greatest happiness in his later years was his relationship with his beloved grandchildren and he took great pride in their accomplishments. He appreciated each of them for their uniqueness and the joy they brought to his life. Jim was a man who lived and died on his own terms. He was a firm believer that you put back into life what you receive. His friendly nature, helpful ways and unique sense of humour endeared him to many people, not to mention the pocketful of Worthers he always carried around to share. The family would like to thank all the medical staff who cared for him during his illness. Our special thanks to his home nurse, Dale, for her care and compassion. In respect of his wishes, there will be no formal service. Cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest in the family plot at Chapel Lawn at a later date, along side his beloved father and brother Dean. In lieu of flowers, donations to any children's amateur sport group or community club would be appreciated. We will miss you and cherish forever the beautiful memories you left us. Rest in Peace Grandpa - We Love You Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715 Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 11, 2005