> Details

Advanced Search:


Regular Search
❮ Go Back to Listings
JAMES EDWARD POTTON Obituary pic

JAMES EDWARD POTTON

Date of Passing: Mar 29, 2014

Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JAMES EDWARD POTTON It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of James (Jim) Potton on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the age of 75. Our Papa' will be missed by wife Myrna, children Michael (partner Rochel), Traci (Randy), and Nanci, grandchildren Garrett, Dylan, Emma, Samantha and Elijah, along with numerous relatives, friends and colleagues. His passion for the outdoors drove his desire for becoming part of the forestry / parks sector. After receiving a Master's Degree in Recreational Management from the University of Minnesota, he spent six years as a Park Ranger for the US National Parks Service in Hawaii, Wyoming, and Montana, before coming north to Canada, in 1968, to work for the Alberta Provincial Government as Assistant Deputy Minister of Parks, and then to Manitoba as Director of Parks. He was the Director of the Manitoba Forestry Association for over 25 years but his passion was fueled by a high-school environmental program called Envirothon in which he served as Chair since its inception in the province in 1997. He also represented Manitoba on the North American Envirothon Committee and served as a Director for three years. Jim will be remembered for his passion, vision, dedication and his ability to forge strong relationships. As he touched the hearts of all he worked with and was a truly inspiring leader. He was most recently recognized for his efforts in 2011, when he was inducted into the Envirothon Hall of Fame and in 2013, when he received The Order of the Buffalo Hunt, one of the Province's highest honours. Cremation has already taken place and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date with a memorial tree planting The family would like to thank the staff at Health Sciences Centre GH3 as well as Jim's many health care providers over the years. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, donations can be made in the name of the Potton-Booth Family of Winnipeg to the Envirothon Program of the Manitoba Forestry Association. "Oh what a Beautiful Morning, Oh what a Beautiful Day". Thank you Papa, you have left an amazing legacy. www.seasonsfunerals.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 05, 2014

Condolences & Memories (20 entries)

  • I only recently became aware of Jim's passing. Myrna please accept my deepest sympathies. I have very fond memories of both you & Jim in the years that I worked with Jim at Alberta Recreation and Parks. He was so great to work with & also knew how to laugh & enjoy life. Please get in touch with me at your convenience. Just wondering how you are. Thinking of the trip we were going to take to Oregon..? - Posted by: Louise (Richards)Vanderleer (Colleague ) on: Aug 30, 2016

  • I am so blessed to read the testimonials above. Thank you for all the kind words. I have looked up to my brother Jim my whole life. He was a very honorable man with integrity and heart as big as any man could have. I knew Jim for 63 years...my age. As a young boy, I remember him attending college and staying at home. He always had time to throw a ball,(or snowball) play a game, or just sit and talk. He built amazing snow forts, and occasionally let us win. I remember the sadness I felt when he left to be A pilot in the US Air Force but I felt extremely proud. His picture was by my bed every day. When he returned from the Air Force and went back to college in Minnesota, I was able to see him more often again. Shortly after that he met and married his beautiful and extremely witty wife Myrna. A wonderful choice. She became like another sister. My growing is filled with memories of fishing vacations to Glacier and Yellowstone Park, and family gatherings. I was always impressed by and riveted to his stories. How he could tell stories. And you had to laugh, as he laughed a contagious and sincere laugh. Jim was a man that drew people to him, and loved almost everyone. I have seen Jim far toO seldom since I moved to Alaska to fly and raise a family of my own. His opinion of things always mattered to me as his wisdom was reflected in all he did. I had the extreme pleasure to host both of my big brothers, Harry and Jim for several weeks in Alaska a few Summers ago. I can still hear his laugh as he hooked many, many salmon on light fly gear...Last Sept., I was blessed again to spend a couple weeks bow hunting in Montana with both brothers again. We laughed and joked and watched Packer games, and thoroughly enjoyed each other. My last memories of my brother "Jimmy", are as fond as my first. How many have woke to hear the first sounds of the day, Jim singing "Oh what a beautiful morning"? And he meant it. He will be greatly missed by his loving family, and the many that knew him. Heaven is a better place with him there, but we will all miss him here. Good night big brother, until we meet again, "see ya"...I love you Jim - Posted by: Tom Potton (Youngest brother) on: Jun 11, 2014

  • Knew Jim when he attended the u of wis. River Falls. He visited us last spring, but didn't mention his kidney problems. He was a true leader, and great guy. Wish I could have kept in touch. Happened upon his picture in Face Book couple years ago and looked him up in the White pages. He will be missed by all who knew him, hope he had no pain. Love from Richard Rivard, white Bear Lake, Mn - Posted by: Richard rivard (Friend) on: Apr 28, 2014

  • We recently learned of Jim's passing and were saddened by the news. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to Myrna and family. Fondly remembered are the many Federal/Provincial Conferences and meetings where Jim always played a significant role, both through his wisdom and his good humour. Fondly remembered also, are the opportunities for family friendships that these events provided. - Posted by: Barry and Kit Diamond (Parks Director, Nova Scotia (ret'd)) on: Apr 21, 2014

  • A leader of family. - Posted by: Dale H.. Potton (First cousin) on: Apr 11, 2014

  • I wish to offer my deepest sympathy to Myrna (Mrs. Potton) and family for your loss. Please take care. - Posted by: Bob & Sue Norton (Neighbour) on: Apr 09, 2014

  • My condolences to you Myrna. Jim was a very special person to me and I always loved talking and spending time with both of you at the North American Envirothon’s over the years. Jim was a true friend and will truly be missed. He will always have a special place in my heart. - Posted by: Rich Belcher (Friend ) on: Apr 08, 2014

  • I have been blessed to have worked with Jim and Myrna at every North American Envirothon I have attended. Jim will be missed by all the Envirothon programs! - Posted by: Sid Lowrance (North American Envirothon Friend) on: Apr 08, 2014

  • To my friend Myrna and all of Jim's family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Jim was one of the most honest and humble men I have ever known. My first trip to Canada he and Myrna welcomed me with open arms. Jim was excited to share with me the history of Manitoba as well as the Manitoba Forestry Assoc. Myrna you know I have loved you and Jim since the first time I met you both. Carry on Jim's legacy! - Posted by: Trish Rowlands (Friend of Jim and Myrna ) on: Apr 07, 2014

  • It was a pleasure to work with Jim as his positive spirit impacted the Envirothon program for everyone! My condolences to Myrna and the family. - Posted by: Barry Burch (Maryland Envirothon Colleague) on: Apr 07, 2014

  • Our deepest sympathy to Myrna and family. We had the opportunity to work with Jim during the North American Canon Envirothon when it was held in Manitoba. What a fun time we all had together. Jim was an inspiration to work with, always with a smile on his face. It was a pleasure to have known him. Rest in peace Jim. We will miss you. - Posted by: Natalie & David Denesovych (Friend and colleague) on: Apr 07, 2014

  • Jim and I spent many memorable times together in the old days of Manitoba Natural Resources, Jim with Parks and me in Forestry. Good times were also had working together on behalf of the Manitoba Forestry Association! Jim was a great worker and a great guy to work with! Judy and I send our condolences and sympathies to Myrna, Michael, Traci and Nanci and families. - Posted by: Dave Rannard (Colleague and friend) on: Apr 07, 2014

  • Condolences to Myrna and extended family. It was a pleasure to know Jim and an honor to serve with him on the various Envirothon events and committees. Carry on the good work! - Posted by: Craig S. Zinter () on: Apr 07, 2014

  • My prayers are with all the Potton family. I will forever remember Jim for his smile. No matter what the situation he could always find a silver lining and make us all smile at the end of the day. May God watch over you Myrna and family as you go through this difficult time without our precious Jim to keep up smiling. Love from Wimbledon, ND!!! Carol Peterson - Posted by: Carol Peterson (friend ) on: Apr 07, 2014

  • I started work with Manitoba's Provincial Parks Branch in 1971. I ended up working with Jim travelling many miles through-out Southern Manitoba. He was a wonderful teacher. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Allan Meltzer (Former Colleague) on: Apr 06, 2014

  • I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember your dad Traci, as someone who was always smiling and willing to drive us anywhere. He also trusted us out in the Chevette that we had to push start everywhere. We were all very blessed to know him and he will be greatly missed. Give your mom a hug for me. - Posted by: Candace Daher (Friend of Traci's) on: Apr 06, 2014

  • My condolences Myrna to you and your family. Jim was a remarkable person who really made a difference. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to meet and work with Jim (and you) through Envirothon. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Laureen Janusz () on: Apr 05, 2014

  • Our condolences to Nanci, Elijah and family. Sorrow shared is sorrow diminished. Our deepest sympathy, Heather, Demetri, Sofia and Jennifer Karavas. - Posted by: Heather Karavas (Friend of Nanci) on: Apr 05, 2014

  • Always pleasure to work with and share a mutual love of Manitoba outdoors. - Posted by: Bob Bridge (Collegue and participant in many "team" projects back in the days of the Dept. of Parks, Tourism and) on: Apr 05, 2014

  • Condolences to Myrna and family, Wonderful words about a special man! - Posted by: Glenn, Cathie, Adam, Amie and Kate Peterson () on: Apr 05, 2014

❮ Go Back to Listings