JAMES WALTER MCCOWAN

Condolences & Memories (16 entries)

• At one moment in time Jim, John Kirk and I shared a closeness spawned by the fact that we three were "flying" farmers. Jim excelled as a mentor in both fields of endeavor and for those life lessons I am to him eternally grateful. Terys, Susan, Jim and your entire families I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences on your loss. - Posted by: Woody Pike (Fellow pilot/farmer) on: Sep 23, 2014

• Our ex-stewardess association chapter in Winnipeg had our summer get-together meetings at their beautiful home in Grosse Isle a few times. Jim would make sure he said Hi to everyone, and put up with a houseful of women so graciously. My deepest sympathy to you Terys and all your family in your sad loss of a terrific gentleman. - Posted by: Dawn Nerbas ( Speake) (Flew with Jim and Terys with TCA.) on: Sep 23, 2014

• I haven't been in touch since moving to YYC in the 90's but have so many fond memories of visiting Jim and Terys at the farm when they hosted our Canadian Maple Wings gatherings. I also flew with Jim on the Viscount in the 60's when I was a flight attendant. He tolerated the antics of myself and my roommate as we bounced across the prairie skies on those 3-day pairings. - Posted by: Louise Ingram (Friend) on: Sep 23, 2014

• I have such fond memories of camping with you folks in Texas and Arizona, and visiting you in Winnipeg. I will miss Jim's great sense of humor. He always seemed to have a positive outlook on life and lived each day with an exuberance and energy that surpasses most of us senior citizens. Love and hugs to all the family, Mary Sklenar - Posted by: Mary Sklenar (Friend - Michigan/Arizona) on: Sep 22, 2014

• Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Growing up there are many fond memories of time spent at the farm with the family, my mother and Aunt Lu. - Posted by: Steve Probert (Friend) on: Sep 22, 2014

• Our sympathy to Terry and family for your loss. I, Garry, enjoyed flights with Jim and chats about farming. One comical incident comes to mind: Jim had purchased a Globe and Mail newspaper to read after breakfast. When the time came to read the paper, he discovered it was a day old paper! Thus his expression: "Well, I'll be darned" followed by a good laugh from both of us. - Posted by: Garry and Jeanette Kirk (fellow A/C pilot) on: Sep 21, 2014

• My sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to Terys, Jim Jr., Susan and families. I have had the privilege of knowing Jim for 35 years and have many fond memories of flying with him in the flight deck of the 727. What started out as a working relationship, became something more, as we shared our mutual love of the country, farming, and the simple life. He was a great mentor to so many of us in the airline, as his way of commanding an aircraft was something that we tried to emulate , when our Captaincy came up. If I could pick any one trait, that stands out, it was Jim's ability to never make a rash decision, and always think before responding. A true Professional. When we were home to Manitoba this summer, I spent some time with Jim at the Stonewall hospital. Terys was there, as well, but she left us to chat and reminisce. It was a tough visit , as we all knew that he was fighting a tough battle. I became even more fond of him and Terys, as I saw how they faced this adversity. They never felt sorry for themselves, no self pity, just a strong courage , that I hope to show when my time comes. My wife Lynn and I know that family and friendships with help Terys through this most difficult time. Our thoughts are with you. Sincerely, Kim and Lynn Sharpe - Posted by: Kim Sharpe (Friend and Colleague) on: Sep 21, 2014

• Thoughts and Prayers are with you all. Lots of love. - Posted by: Katherine Sotkowy () on: Sep 20, 2014

• No nonsense straight from the shoulder was Jim he treated your square and expected the same in return I looked after his farm when winter came, his wild geese, his John Deere and his plane.We built him a bin for a bumper crop that were few, in and old barn that was far from new He will be missed, and may his first day in heaven go well. Suzanne and Joe - Posted by: Suzanne & Joe Prime (class mate and friend) on: Sep 20, 2014

• Although I have not been in contact with Jim ( and Terry ) for more than 35 years, I can still remember some great times I did spend with him...flying, fishing, hunting and sharing common interests. I am very sorry to hear about Jim's passing but he does leave me with many good memories - Posted by: Don St. John (Friend) on: Sep 20, 2014

• I've known Jim only because he was a patient at the dental office I work at. The picture shown is the smile I will forever remember. Such an amazing man, funny and a heart of gold. Every time he came into the office he carried with him an infectious laugh and amazing stories. Stories from his flying career to the love of the farm. I send a lot of love and hugs to his family…a family that is amazing to say the least a family that he held so dearly to his heart, whenever he told stories of his grandchildren he had a wonderful twinkle in his eye and a smile that made your heart warm. Much love Melissa xo - Posted by: Melissa Flanagan () on: Sep 20, 2014

• If not for our nomadic lifestyle, our paths may once again have crossed Jim and Terry's a couple of years ago. They were driving through Florida and attempted to look us up in Punta Gorda, but by then we had moved "north", to Sarasota. We always hoped there would be another chance, but it was not to be. Flying with Jim, back in the day, was always a pleasure. In addition to the Air Canada connection, we enjoyed the most delicious brunches at their home - our (now adult) children remember them still! There will be a hole in the world where once you were, Jim, and we will miss you. The miles between us can never erase the wonderful memories. To Terry, Susan and Jimmy, and their families, we send our deepest sympathy. May the memory of Jim's laughter give you strength, and the passage of time bring you peace. With our love, Pat and Diana (Maloney) - Posted by: Pat and Diana Maloney (Friends) on: Sep 20, 2014

• Dear Terys and family. You and Jim have been part of our Buckhorn "family" for the past 13 years. I always look ed forward to your arrival. Your presence will be greatly missed. We hope you will still come visit. You have many friends that love you dearly. There is a special place in my heart for both of you and your family. Love and kisses always, Kathy - Posted by: Kathy and Dee Christiansen (Close friends) on: Sep 20, 2014

• It is with great sadness I read of your loss. The memories of conversations, time on the farm, and the many kindnesses Jim shared with me and my family have had a lasting impression. In particular I will always remember the loving kindness he showed to mom and I when my dad passed 10 years ago -- driving her to the hospital, and sitting with us until we were ready to leave. May you each experience the love and comfort of God in those surrounding you at this time. - Posted by: Donna Royer (family friend) on: Sep 20, 2014

• It was a privilege to get to know Jim. He was such a kind, gentle soul with a very interesting life to share. We will miss him. Terry, you and the family will remain in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Sandy & Pete (Friends) on: Sep 20, 2014

• Whenever I think of Jim an early morning departure out of YWG comes to mind. After Jim checked the log book he told me that the in-coming crew had reported trouble with #1 engine.Maintenance had checked it out and o.k.ed the aircraft for flight.On climb-out there was a loud bang and #1 engine failed.Jim calmly took his stoggy from his mouth and said,"gol ding it Danny I knew it was a patch job." - Posted by: Dan McGrath (Fellow A/C pilot) on: Sep 20, 2014