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IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES DONALD BURGESS Obituary pic

IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES DONALD BURGESS

Born: Mar 25, 1934

Date of Passing: Dec 25, 2024

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IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES DONALD BURGESS

March 25, 1934 - December 25, 2024


It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Donald Burgess on December 25, 2024, in Minnedosa, Manitoba. Born on March 25, 1934, in Minnedosa, he was the second child of May and Jack Burgess. He was predeceased by his brother Kenneth Burgess, brothers-in-law Norrie Rutherford and Norman Bertram, and sisters-in-law Glenda (Bertram) Reid and Jean Burgess.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Linda and his four children, Rick(Sherri), Jan (Garry Chambers), Terry (Debbie) and Scott (Alison). Forever cherished and remembered by his 12 Grand Children; Glen (Danica), Dustin, Dana (Jessica), Bernie (Rhaena), Jaremy (Christine), Josh (Ashley), Marshal (Sarah), Melissa (Tom Anderson), Mitchell (Megan), Ashton (Ryan Shaw), Kaitlyn (Randy Loucks), Abby (Warner Schwenzer) and his 17 Great Grand Children; Cain, Arwen, Pierce, Mya, Alaira, Madison, Owen, Cordelia, John Terry, Brinley, James, Ethan, Leah, Mazey, Liza, Aurora and Layland.

A Life Rooted in Community and Family

Jim spent his childhood in Minnedosa, where he attended school and worked in the family store. Though stories of his mischievous early years are sparse, those who knew him best could only imagine the adventures he shared with close friends Bob Wilson, Trevor McNeely, and Bill Rutledge.

In Grade 11, he attended Ravenscourt Boys School in Winnipeg, an experience that combined academics with a touch of football. Upon returning to Minnedosa in 1951, he joined his family’s grocery business, learning the trade alongside his brother, Ken and dad, Jack. Over the decades, he built a lasting legacy through Burgess Quality Foods, serving Minnedosa with dedication and pride. In 2015, he and his son Rick received the key to the town, a testament to 125 years of family service to the community. After stepping away from the family business, Jim started a new chapter with Investors Group in 1984, the job he had until he retired in 1999!

Love and Partnership

Jim met the love of his life, Linda (Lynn) Rutherford, at her going-away party in Shoal Lake in 1954. Their connection blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by love, laughter, and mutual respect. They married in Minnedosa on June 11, 1958, just weeks after her graduation from the University of Manitoba, and shared a life filled with adventure, family, and cherished memories.

A Legacy of Service and Passion

Jim was a cornerstone of the Minnedosa community. Through his involvement with the church, AOTS, Kinsmen, Rotary, and Lions Clubs, as well as his 12 years on the town council—six of them as Mayor—his impact was deeply felt. He was a dedicated volunteer, active politically, and a tireless advocate for the community he loved.

Jim’s passions included water skiing, curling, fishing, singing, and later, golf and duplicate bridge, in which he and his wife earned their Master titles in 2000. Family trips, summer days at Clear Lake, and winters in Mesa, Arizona, were filled with laughter, love, and the joy of shared experiences.

A Life Well Lived

Above all, Jim cherished his family. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy, and his legacy lives on through them.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at the Minnedosa Personal Care Home and other medical facilities for their compassionate support over the past 18 months.

A celebration of Jim’s life was held on January 3, 2025, at Minnedosa United Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Parkinson Society of Canada, Cancer Care or a charity of your choice.

We thank you for joining us in remembering Jim, a man who lived a life full of love, laughter, and service. As we say goodbye for now, we hold onto the promise of meeting again.

White’s Funeral Home, Minnedosa in care of arrangements.

Condolences: www.whitesfh.ca

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 11, 2025

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