October 20, 1928 – March 25, 2013
Jim passed away after a short illness in the Moog Palliative Care Center in Penticton, with his loving family at his bedside.
Jim was born and grew up in Grand Forks, BC. After completing high school he went to UBC, attending medical school there, graduating with the first class to do so in 1954. Afterwards Jim returned to his hometown to practice family medicine for seven years. Because of his love of delivering babies, Jim decided to change his practice to obstetrics and gynecology. After undertaking further training in Vancouver, he and the family moved to Penticton wherte the Okanagan area benefitted greatly from his new specialty. During his 45 years of deeply loved practice he helped bring several thousand children into the world. As an enthusiastic member of the Penticton Rotary Club for 36 years, Jim believed in and lived the Rotary commitment of “Service Above Self”.
Jim’s love for music had him to play the violin and later become a member of the Naramata Choir in 1979 until his death. Other hobbies included his passion for reading, and secondly sports.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years Marian, his two daughters Barbara (husband David Flater) and Kathleen and his son Dan and wife Sylvia, grandson Daniel and granddaughter Patricia. Two other sons, Jim and Richard predeceased him. His brother Ezra and sister Peggy Phillips were also very much part of his life.
Christina Lake near Grand Forks was his second home that he enjoyed for his whole life.
A celebration of Jim’s wonderful life was held at the Penticton United Church on Saturday, March 30. Jim was cremated and his ashes have been placed in Penticton Lakeview Cemetery. Those who wish to honor Jim’s outstanding contribution to his family, friends and Penticton and his wonderfully life are asked to make a donation to the Penticton Hospital Foundation on his behalf.