Dr. James Bruce Draper (70) passed away peacefully in his home at Christina Lake, B.C. on Saturday, November 26. Jim was surrounded by his family and leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Donna; daughters Lesa Renner (George), Kriste Draper (Justin Laragione), Janet Trpin (Milan), and Diana; grandchildren Abi and Riley Renner, Finn and Banyan Laragione, Mateo and Ruby Trpin; sister, Cathy Alcee. Jim was predeceased three weeks prior by his brother John Draper.
Jim was born in Vancouver and grew up across Canada. He met Donna in Montreal during his senior year in high school. Jim earned a Business degree in Accounting, a Dental Degree, and a Masters in Education. Jim loved hockey all his life and was part of the Castlegar Minor Hockey Association and President of the Castlegar Rebels. He was Education Coordinator for Kootney Dental Society, served on multiple boards and owned several businesses over the course of his 28 years in Castlegar. Jim was coroner in Castlegar and as a marriage commissioner, he officiated at many weddings. He loved doing weddings and has enjoyed many visits from “his couples” and their children over the years.
Jim loved singing, acting and directing musical theater, was a member of Nelson Barber Shoppers, Rossland Light Opera, Boundary Musical Theatre, Kettle Falls Woodland Theatre and the United Church Choirs for many years in both Castlegar and Christina Lake.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to the Castlegar Public Library. Donations are being received at Mallard’s Source for Sports in Castlegar. There will be a celebration of life for Jim at The Little Bear Golf Course in Castlegar, January 14, 2017 from 1-3 p.m. All are welcome to come and celebrate with the family.
Donna would like to thank the doctors and staff of Boundary Hospital, the Recovery Team at the Rehab Unit in Kelowna, and the Baker Family of Grand Forks Funeral Home. Thanks also to Interior Health for making it possible for Jim to die with dignity, surrounded in love, in the comfort of our own home. Blessed be.