JAMES SQUIRE

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JAMES SQUIRE On Sunday, February 12, 2012, at the age of 93, James died peacefully at home in the presence of his beloved wife, Sylvia and son, Phillip. Dad had his wish fulfilled of dying at home in the care of his family. Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sylvia; his children, Phillip, Sandy (Roger), Peter (Liese), and Aria. He is survived by his seven grandchildren, Asher, Elan, Riley, Carter, Justin, Alex Joy, and Steven. He was predeceased by his brother Frank, sister Stella, and his infant grandson Collin. Jim was born in Wabana, Newfoundland, on May 9, 1918, to Walter and Mary Squire. He completed his early schooling on Bell Island and then moved to St. John's to do his undergraduate degree at Memorial University. Jim then completed his medical degree at Dalhousie University in Halifax, graduating at the age of 23 in 1941. He then enlisted in the Canadian army. He was seconded to the British medical corps, shipping off to London and then onto India and Burma for the duration of the war. Upon his return to London Jim did a year of postgraduate work in radiotherapy. He then continued his training in diagnostic radiology at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal. While studying in Montreal, Jim met Sylvia (Proudfoot) and they were married in Montreal in 1952. Shortly after, they moved to Vancouver Island, where Phillip and Sandy were born. A few years later they moved to Winnipeg, where they have happily remained. Two more children joined the family here, Peter and Aria. While always busy in his work life, Dad always took time for his family. Special family times were at the cottage and celebrating various holidays throughout the year. For many years Jim and Sylvia hosted a wonderful Christmas Eve party. As adults we all have special memories of these times. Dad was always very proud of his Newfoundland roots and remained close to his extended family in Newfoundland and beyond. He was drawn to the water, which likely grew from growing up on an island. He enjoyed the fact that three of his children lived on the west coast for many years. Dad continued his career as a radiologist at the Manitoba X-ray Clinic from the time he came to Winnipeg until his retirement. He was well respected for his professional contributions. After retirement Jim and Sylvia enjoyed trips to visit family across the country in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Calgary, Vancouver Island, Salt Spring Island and Oregon, and sojourns in Spain and Arizona with good friends. Dad was a great reader and philosopher. He loved to engage others in conversations on many topics, reluctant to change his point of view, but enjoying the debate and call to learn and examine. Jim genuinely cared for the well- being of people, his community, as well as broader world issues. Over the years Jim enjoyed a good game of tennis with Sylvia and friends. In retirement he began to walk five miles a day and continued this until a few years ago. The constant in Dad's life was his family. He was always here for his wife, children and grandchildren. We were so fortunate to have him in good health and strong mind for so long. He will be greatly missed. Flowers are graciously declined. If so desired charitable contributions in Jim's memory would be welcomed to the Victoria General Hospital Guild or to Doctors Without Borders. Memorial service will be held on Monday, February 20, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Anglican Church, 830 North Drive, Winnipeg. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.mb.ca 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 18, 2012