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JAMES KENNETH RICHARD SMITH Obituary pic

JAMES KENNETH RICHARD SMITH

Born: Mar 08, 1929

Date of Passing: Jul 04, 2015

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JAMES KENNETH RICHARD SMITH March 8, 1929 - July 4, 2015 Peacefully, on July 4, Jim (a.k.a. Big Jim) passed away with the love of his family surrounding him. Jim worked for the City of Winnipeg Transit for 34 years, both as a Bus Driver and then as a Transit Instructor. There are so many bus drivers who have run into him over the years that still thank him for his teachings and the encouragement Jim showed to them. Jim was a friend to all. He could walk into a room full of strangers and walk out with a room full of friends. Jim treated everyone with the utmost courtesy and respect, and was always willing and able to assist anyone with a project. You would be hard pressed to find a friend or relative who has not been helped by Jim with a garage, rec room, deck, concrete work, or even sausage making. He could visualize a project and the necessary steps required. Jim had that vision and insight when he built the family's in-ground pool. He would sit for hours admiring his pool and listening to the glorious laughter from his children and grandchildren, along with friends and relatives, who always felt welcomed. That is when Jim and Marion smiled their biggest smiles. They loved to entertain, and that entertainment always led to their famous parties, dancing and telling of jokes. Nobody loved a good joke more than Jim. All of Jim's projects started with a solid foundation. This was also the way he raised his family: strong moral values, always lend a helping hand, the door is always open, as was his heart. His legacy will continue to live on in all of us for generations to come. Jim will be lovingly missed by his wife Marion, whom he shared 64 years of marriage; son Garry (Darcia), Reid and Ryan (Alycia); son Danny (Maureen), Brandice (Andrew), Kirsten and their mother Florence, predeceased; daughter Barbara Shindruk (Sheldon) and Chloe (Stephen). Jim is also survived by his brothers, Lawry (Gloria), Orland (Terry) and Lenny (Carol), along with numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held at Green Acres Funeral Home on Thursday, July 9, 2015, 2:00 p.m. GREEN ACRES Funeral Home and Cemetery Hwy. #1 E. at Navin Road, Winnipeg, MB (204) 222-3241 Condolences may be sent to www.greenacresfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 08, 2015

Condolences & Memories (7 entries)

  • We always called him Big Jim. I remember watching Jim and Marion dancing one night and thinking " boy can they move", they made it look so easy. My daughter Becky loved swimming with Big Jim and Marion in their pool. You just can't help smiling when you think of him, he will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Peg Thom (friend) on: Aug 30, 2015

  • God Bless you Jimmy. Some of my fondest memories of growing up on Edward Avenue is coming to swim in your pool with Michelle. You and your beautiful wife were so generous and welcoming. You were the sweetest man and will be missed dearly. Thank you for making me feel like part of the family. From the Irvines to the Smiths, we are so sad for your loss and will remember Jimmy with love and great fondness. - Posted by: Dawn Irvine (Friend) on: Jul 14, 2015

  • I got to meet Jim & Marion about 30Years ago at a house party. From the first time , I knew he was a joker , lovable , & caring person. He never hesitated in stopping to say hello at the mall & always asked how everything was. We will miss him immensely.Our deepest condolences to you Marion and your family. Our prayers are with you. - Posted by: Fred & Donna Sokolosky (Friend) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • I had the pleasure of getting to know Jim and Marion when they moved into Devonshire House 2. Jim always had a smile on his face and was just a fun guy! I loved to say Hi Trouble! He'd get this big grin on his face and have a cheeky answer! Such a lovely man. He will be missed a lot at Dev 2. Hugs to Marion and family. - Posted by: Lorna Sampson (Friend) on: Jul 08, 2015

  • Jimmy was my instructor and if it wasn't for his help and guidance I would not have stayed with Transit. My deepest sympathy to the family. - Posted by: Wally Lang (Co-worker) on: Jul 08, 2015

  • I was one of the lucky ones that had Big Jim as my instructor when I started with Transit in '76. I was fortunate to have been able to maintain a great relationship with him through my career until he retired. Jim was always available anytime I wanted to ask his opinion on a situation and I'll always treasure his understanding and support. I'll miss him, but will remember him with admiration. - Posted by: Dan Kirk (Former student) on: Jul 08, 2015

  • The wonderful memories of times spent with uncle Jim, aunt Marion and family are too numerous to mention. We will miss his smiles, teasing nature and undeniable love. All our love and support to auntie Marion and family. Love Gerry, Dave and all our family. - Posted by: Gerry Hammond and family (Niece) on: Jul 08, 2015

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