November 6, 1927 – July 27, 2022
Early on a Wednesday morning in summer a feisty featherweight reluctantly threw in the towel. When the final bell rang Jimmy had boxed his heart out through all 12 rounds. That was his style, stick it out, aim for the win, don’t give up and never hit below the belt.
He was only two when his dad, Stanley Hosking, newly immigrated from New Liskeard, Cornwall died in rural Perth County. Two years later, his mum, Freda remarried a dairy farmer outside of St. Marys named Percy Switzer. Jimmy was a small kid but farm work made him strong and fit. He had good looks on his side and he was clever. He told us how his feet didn’t touch the floor when he started high school at St. Marys Collegiate. He was 12. A couple of years later he held the school record in gym for most consecutive push ups. We like to think that record still stands : )
He left home at 16 and paid his board while attending Beale Tech in London with money won on the prize fighting circuit in Ontario and Michigan. He got a standing ovation once at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto and, he said, the fight was called a draw!
He fell in love with Joanie Bell, a journalist’s daughter from St. Marys, in 1947. They married 2 years later and became parents almost 9 months to the day. By 1954, with 2 kids, Jane and Steve, and a wife to support, he needed two jobs to get ahead. Even though he was a trained draftsman, Jimmy was a natural salesman. He loved people of every sort, he laughed easily and often. A good day was on the road in a smooth ride making new contacts (he had a penchant for nice cars and was beginning to be able to afford one). He sold everything from vacuum cleaners and insurance to real estate and farm equipment. He had his own businesses and farmed on the side. He raced Standard Bred horses and mucked out stalls before breakfast.
A daughter, Sally was born in 1967 and two more boys, Bruce aged 2 and Kenny aged 8 were adopted into the family by 1973.
He taught drafting at night school in Stratford and passed his pilot’s license about the same time. And there were dogs, lots of dogs and cats, and parties. The parties were raucous, filled with good food, abundant spirits, crazy laughter and old friends. They kept us kids awake into the wee hours.
Jimmy was a great dad. He taught his kids determination, resilience and stamina. He was a peace keeper. He showed us how to laugh at ourselves.
Joanie died 8 years ago and Jimmy took it pretty hard but the day he entered palliative care at Jessica House in Exeter, he had the staff in stitches. He was “all used up” as his mother would say but they made him welcome and comfortable and he found the rest and peace he needed. He drifted away quietly in the night, likely dreaming of his dogs. And so he followed them home.
He is dearly loved and missed by his children, Jane (Bruce) Flood, Steve (Alanna) Hosking, Ken, Sally and Bruce Hosking. Grandkids James (Fawn) Reibling, Kip Reibling, Heidi (Brian) Shephard and Gillian (Meghan) Reibling Calhoun; Nick (Hannah) Hosking, Brooke (Mark) Read; Danny (DonnaJo Heuser) Hosking and David MacDonald; and Great Grandbabies Emma, Megan and Owen Reibling; Matilda and Lochlan Shephard; Camron Hosking, Connor and Evan Read, and Chase, Ryder and Abbie Hosking. Siblings Peter (Audrey) Switzer, Ray (Sheila) Switzer and Lorraine (Mark) Hollinger. Predeceased by brothers John (Loreen) Switzer and Bill (Lorna) Switzer. Also missed by many nieces and nephews and countless new and old acquaintances.
Special thank you to Dr. Jadd, Jessica’s House, and the Exeter Villa for their care and compassion.
Cremation has taken place. A private family gathering is planned to celebrate Jimmy’s life.
Donations to Jessica’s House would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Debbie and Mike
Hi Jimmy, our dear friend. We really loved our visits when I would pamper your feet and listen to your wonderfully entertaining stories. It was a great pleasure to know you, may you rest in peace . Our condolences to the family. Debbie and Mike , Grand Bend. 😞🙏🏻
Constance and Charlie Sunderland
Steve and Mac we send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We never had the pleasure of meeting your Dad, although it felt like we had from the stories you shared with us Mac. What an amazing obituary that encapsulated your Dad’s abundant and bountiful life! Steve and Mac may you hold all your fond memories of your Dad in heart! ❤️
Michael and Deanne
Bet there are alot of wagging tails in heaven these days.,….
Peter & Audrey Switzer
What a wonderfull brother that we looked up to and respected. We will miss him and his humour and it will be tough now being the senior in the family. Our thoughts and love go out to Jane , Steve, Sally, Ken, and Bruce and their families. He has left us with many good memories. It was nice to see that his mind was sharper than mine in remembering some of the neighbours etc. Steve many thanks for bringing Jim around a short while ago.
Gerald and Brenda Lenders
Dear Mac and Steve and family,
We are very sorry to read of your father’s passing and send our heartfelt condolences to all of you on the passing of your father, grandfather and great grandfather. It sounds like he had a wonderful, happy and love filled life. Treasure all the smiles, laughter and memories that he has left each of you with. Hugs,
Gerald and Brenda
Exeter Villa
The residents and staff of the Exeter Villa send their heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Karen Rapien
Karen and Gerry Rapien
We extend our sympathy to his family. We are sure that you have many fond memories of a man who had a zest for life.
Edna Hill
Many memories of Jim and Joan when we were neighbours and our children were young. My condolences to the family. May your memories sustain you at this time.
Edna Hill
Ron and Debra Morrison
My sympathy goes out to all of the family : Reflecting on all the laughs we used to share in the Real Estate business working together for several years . Always a man with a great attitude and lots of drive . Always a positive influence whenever he was around . He will be missed .
Wes Elmes
It was a pleasure to reunite with your special dad; from when we were kids visiting in our Switzer homes. Also to be able to host Jean (Dunbar), now 101, there then farm neighbour for his growing up years. Several visits later, and when in Exeter, were so complimentary towards you. Our condolences to each of you and Switzer cousins – Gladys Stock, as well as Jean Houghton
Linda Marsden
To Jimmys family:
We at Towerview Apartments are so sorry to hear of Jimmys passing. He was such a “gentleman”. We always enjoyed hearing all his tales from his very interesting life. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Linda, next door at Towerview.
Dale & Linda Froats
Steve and Alanna Thinking of you folks and sending our sympathy to you and your family at this time.
Gord & Joanne Hardy
To the Hosking family:
Sincere sympathy for your loss. He lived a full life and will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Sally Mills
Steve, Alanna and family
Sorry to hear of your loss. What a great tribune! Our condolences to all of you.
Dann and Sally
Dave and Cathie Paul
To Steve and all of the family, we are saddened to read of your Dad’s passing…what a marvelous life of love, laughter and life lessons. Dave remembers meeting him(back in the days of L&S Construction) and of him laughing and smiling. What an amazing legacy. With warmest regards, Dave and Cathie Paul
Ruth Sim (Westbrook)
Sorry to hear about your loss of a wonderful Father or Grandfather. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. The orituary was one of the best I have ever read. My prayers go out to Jane and her children during this time of lament.
Rob and Linda Salts
What a beautiful tribute to a kind, sweet man.
It was a delight to be in his company.
Our sincere condolences to all of Jim’s family and friends.
He will be dearly missed.
Keith and Liz Selves
Our condolences to all of the Hosking family. We always enjoyed visiting with Jimmy and Joan, usually at family bridal showers or at the London Farm Show. He always had a wonderful smile when you met him and was ready for a chat. Rest in peace Jimmy say hi to cousin Joan.
Gilly & Mel
Steve & Mac & families
Our condolences to all. So sorry for your loss
A lot of great memories from his interesting life❤️
Gilly & Mel
Karen Peters
Dear Steve, Alanna and family. So sorry to read of Jimmy’s passing. What a beautiful obituary, he certainly had an interesting and long life. May all your wonderful memories give you strength at this time. Most sincerely, Karen & John and families.
Cindy Taylor
Steve, Jane and families, what can I say. We lost a wonderful loving man. I had the pleasure of looking after Jimmy at the Exeter Villa. He always had a twinkle in his eye and such an amazing smile. Always checked in at 6:45 to see if he was up and he would always have a joke. He will always be dearly missed as he always was a kind gentleman.
Dianne Walkom
My sincere sympathies on the loss of your Father, Grandfather , and Great Grandfather. A great big smile and a wonderful chuckle are some of my memories. May your memories give you peace on a life well lived.
Mary Lee
Steve and Alanna and family, we are sorry to hear the passing of your dad, cherish the memories in your heart, our condolences to you all.
TIM RYAN
Steve and Entire Hosking family.
Not very often one wishes there was a second paragraph to an obit.
That was an awesome read that was put together for an awesome man.
What a life!
I know you will all keep the memories alive. Keep well and keep the smiles and laughing going
Tim and Sandy
Jim and Helen Hearn
Dear Steve, Mac and family
We loved reading about your Dad! What a remarkable man. You just know that he is yet again onto a bigger and better adventure. He is one man that may be gone, but he certainly will not be forgotten. Our sincere sympathy to all Jimmy’s loved ones.
Jim and Helen
Kevin and Barb Ferguson
Sorry for your loss he was an amazing man. He would always make you laugh. He lived a good and long life. You will be missed Uncle Jim.
Noel and Rita Martin
Meeting Jimmy at Holy Trinity was an honour and an unforgettable privilege. His willingness to talk,
to share his experiences, his smile, his joviality and his hugs will remain with us. Truly a man of Faith, Love, Decency and Gentleness…. Our sincere sympathy to Steve, Alanna and Family.
Don and Judy Squire
Steve, Mac and families
Our sympathy to you, your father certainly lived his life to the fullest! He always had a pleasant smile and greeting.
Don and Judy
Len Lobb
Steve and all the Hosking family,
Jim was a special guy. I’m so privileged to have heard (first-hand) his life story of growing up in the St. Marys area and wish all my family and friends could have known him. Jim made sense of a lot of life’s twists and turns; he was a ‘real’ person.
Pat Ryan
I got to know Jim during his Farm Fleet days, what a great guy.
My condolences to Steve and family.
Rest in Peace Jim
Dave Hill
Steve, Alana and family.
Our sincere sympathy in the loss of your father and grandfather. May he rest in peace.
Dave and Karen Hill
Joyce Sovereign
Steve,Alanna,and all Jimmies Family
Sorry to read of your Dad’s death.
It was a honour to meet and know him abit from church .Sending my sincere sympathy to you all .
What a nice long life he had,he has earned his rest .May God comfort you all in these sad times
Carol & Kevin Windsor
Steve, Mac & the entire Hosking/Switzer families
So very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. What an amazing tribute to a man clearly loved & respected by his family! Sending hugs and sincere sympathy for your loss.
Lee-Ann MacKenzie
Jimmy’s story is beautiful, we should all leave behind a life as colourful. Sending much love to your family.
Graham & Lee-Ann
Roy & MJ van Kasteren
Dear Steve, Alana and family,
Great life story, reading this puts me in mind of a great man, very dedicated in supporting his family. We are sorry for your loss and offer our heartfelt condolences. What great memories you must have to remember him.
Vic & Denise Capitano
Sending our condolences to you and your family. He certainly lived his life to the fullest, so there are so many happy memories for you to cherish!
Betty McIntyre
My condolences to you all. He was an inspiration to all of us who met him at church’ Such a nice guy!
Bruce
YEP!! MY DAD WAS AN AMAZING GUY. WITH NO REGRETS, I KNOW WHERE HE WENT!! CARRY ON DAD, CARRY ON!! B
shannon paterson
What a wonderful tribute! Cheers to a life well lived, and my condolences to the family left to mourn, he will be sorely missed Im sure.
Pat Switzer Patterson
Uncle Jim led a big life with a big smile on his face. I know that he will be missed. Our condolences on your loss.
Gary Switzer
A great tribute to a wonderful man. “He laughed easily and often” is so true and a trait I always admired. Condolences to the extended Hosking family.
We miss you Uncle Jim.
Gary & Roberta
Glen and Linda Finch
Steve, Alanna and Family
We are so sorry for your loss
Jimmy was such a nice gentleman, he
always made us smile at work
May your memories help you through
this sad time
Ann (Bell) Hammond
Best laugh ever.
Fondly remembering old times.
Rest in peace Uncle Jim.
Glen and Linda Finch
Steve, Alanna and Family
We are very sorry for your loss
Jimmy was such a nice gentleman
May your memories help you through
this sad time
Ruth Williams
I first met Jim at Nick and Hannah’s wedding. He had recently lost his wife and was understandably emotional. A while later I gave him a book on grief. He called to thank me and we had a lengthy, meaningful conversation. Each subsequent time we were together, usually at the church, he was friendly and cheerful. He will be missed.
I’m sorry for your loss. ❤️
Joan Greenlee
Steve , Alanna and family so sorry for your loss. Always had a smile when you saw and spoke to him. Joan Greenlee and Gardner McDonald.
Karen Curtis
So sorry for your loss.
Bob Taylor and family.
Brianne Marsh
Sorry to hear of your loss. He sounded like a wonderful man who lived an extraordinary life.
Liz Hodgins & Alan Gates
Steve, Alanna & Families,
We are so sorry to hear of Jimmy’s passing. He was a wonderful man with a beautiful smile. So happy we were able to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. May Jimmy RIP. 🙏
Pete & Pat Van Geleuken
Steve and Mack: your father & father-in law sounded like he was an amazing man with an incredible life. This is an amazing tribute to him. Our condolences to you both & your family.
Ron & Glenda Lindenfield
Steve, Alanna & Family
What a great tribute, knowing him was a honour, he left great inspiration and kindness in all of you, he will be missed by many, never Easy!
Sincerely Ron and Glenda
Larry Lewis
Steve, Mac and family
Sorry to hear of your loss. Although we didn’t know him it sounds like he was a great man. He will be missed greatly but remember all the good times.
Larry and Lynda
Tom Hearn
I’m so sorry for your loss. You have my deepest condolences.
Drew & Jeanette Ferguson
Our sympathies to the family.
Jimmy’s vibrant character and love of life is a legacy that is handed down in his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Kathy and Keith McFarland- Lucan
So sorry to hear of your loss- no replacing a dad❤️ This a great tribute to a great man🙏
Doris Ovens
To the Hosking Family
Although I only know Steve & Alanna my condolences to you all. Jimmy will never be forgotten— he was always a positive, gentle man of great faith, a shining light at Holy Trinity. I enjoyed our phone chats so much. God has a new very special angel— he will be with us all we just can’t see him. R.I.P. my friend. 🙏🤗
Sheila Butchart
Alana, Steve and extended family my condolences to the passing of your father. Sounds like he enjoy life in all ways
Prayers and love
Wendy Dann
A warm and wonderful gentleman. Always a smile to light up your day.
Bob and Nancy Rushton
Our sincere condolences for your loss. Sure sounds like Jimmy had a full and interesting life. You will have lots of fond memories.
Rev. Matt
Loved Jimmy. He was inspiring, thoughtful caring and generous. I am better off for having known him.
Carmen JONES
Such a lovely tribute, he will be much missed. Our condolences.
Dave & Carmen Jones
Anne Bernard
Sorry for your loss. He sounded like an amazing person. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
Love from PEI
Brenda and Fred Smith
Steve and Mack family
So sorry to hear about your loss hugs
Always keep the good times close to your heart
Brenda McManus
A good man. A great life.
Rest In Peace.