After a fulfilling and joyous life, Jim, cherished husband, and best friend to Elaine for 54 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 18, 2024. Beloved father of Holly and her husband Brad Barrett, dear father-in-law of Tracy Hume of Ottawa. Adored papa and grandpa of Shae and Jayden Barrett and Stuart and Julia Tomlinson. Dear brother of Iris Parks of California, brother-in-law of Gordon Ross (Eileen), stepbrother of Tom and Carol Arthur. Fondly remembered and loved by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Predeceased by his mother, Marjorie Arthur, stepfather, Graham Arthur, mother and father-in-law Rena and Ernie Ross, and sister-in-law Marlene Ostland (Eric).
Jim had a passion for helping others and took pride in his job as a Forensic Identification Sergeant with the London Police Force where he worked for over 32 years. Jim was a proud member of St. John’s 209a Masonic Lodge in London and served as Master in 1979. He loved being a Mocha Shriner and supporting the Shriners Hospitals for Children and volunteering for the VON. Throughout his life, Jim enjoyed many adventures. He loved building his Bayfield home and sailing the Great Lakes. As a couple, they hosted cruises and land tours for many years. Jim felt blessed to have explored all 7 continents. He especially enjoyed seeing the penguins in Antarctica, walking the Great Wall of China and zip-lining over Victoria Falls in Africa. Jim was an incredible artist; he had a love for creating beautiful stained-glass lamps and enjoyed woodworking. He had an eye for photography and his Doors of the World canvas was sold throughout North America. Above all, Jim loved spending time with his family and sharing laughs with his friends. Sincere thank you to the staff at Parkhill AgeCare LTC for the wonderful care and support they gave Jim while at his home away from home.
A private ceremony has taken place but please join us for a Celebration of Life at Ironwood Golf Club, Exeter, 70969 Morrison Line, EXETER on Sunday, April 28th from 1-4 PM.
If so desired, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth or Chateau Gardens Memorial Fund.
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).
Sandra Newton
Sandra Newton
Elaine I send my sincere condolences at the passing of your wonderful husband Jim. He was a kind, and caring man so he will be missed by many people. Peace be with you at this time of loss.
Trevor
Dear Elaine,
When I saw Jim’s obituary photo, a flood of memories came back. I wish you could feel what’s in my heart right now. I hope these words can convey at least some of these feelings.
As I write this, I can hear Jim retelling the hilarious jokes and one-liners he shared years ago, and you are right there laughing at the punchline. I wish I could share some of them here, but I know it wouldn’t do them justice.
Jim made a deep and lasting impression on me as a 16-year old kid in 1990. I instantly noticed and respected how he approached tasks and responsibilities with intent and focus. I can’t recall him doing anything haphazardly—Ever. Whether a stained glass piece or your driveway of interlocking bricks on Lynngate Place, everything Jim constructed was quality. He once told me: “Without a plan, plan to fail”. I never forgot that. Thank you Jim.
I remember many great times. One time Jim and I did the Terry Fox run together, which was very unfortunate for Jim because I talked so much that day. But of course he demonstrated legendary patience and restraint while I posed 10km worth of philosophical questions on a wide range of subjects. He never let on he wasn’t there to make conversation, and I—obliviously—never picked up on it. It must have been torture for him! But he never lost his composure the whole way.
Another time I showed up at your place wearing a new jacket which Jim asked to try on. No sooner were his arms through the sleeves when he promptly discovered a small bottle of vodka in the chest pocket I had forgotten about. I was busted. But he just paused, flashed me a serious expression and held his gaze for a moment. Then he handed the coat back and simply said, “Nice jacket”.
I always thought you and Jim were awesome together. ‘JET JT’ + ‘JET ET’ forever!
Please accept my deepest condolences and best wishes. May you draw strength and comfort from your wonderful family and from so many dear friends.
Henny Morrissey
What a beautiful obituary. Jim sure lived a full life. I treasure the stained glass ornament he crafted for me. Such a kind soul.
Dan Johnston
Elaine, sorry to learn of Jim’s passing, such a talented man. He made us look great in our wedding photos. Fun to work with in the ident office. Sincere sympathy to you and your family. Take care Dan and Gayle.
Judith Sparks
Elaine,
We are so saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. With fondness we remember so many wonderful moments in Bayfield but also working at LPS.
With heartfelt condolences,
Dave and Judy Sparks
Ken and Kim Pinder
Dear Elaine
Very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Lory Moro
I’m saddened to learn of Jim’s passing. I worked with Jim on the London Police Department. He was a good friend and an excellent officer. May he rest in peace. Sincere condolences to Elaine and family.
Ann Pascoe
Elaine and family,As you know we have shared many years of friendship with you and Jim,Mike and I valued our times together,our trips ,our golf games,cottage experiences and just hanging out,We have so many of his gifts in our home,He will always be remembered ,Ann and family
Mary Boyle
Elaine,
Sorry to read of Jim’s passing.
My sincere condolences, keep your memories close.
Donna Czigli
Elaine may you and your family find peace and comfort in the cherished memories .
Rod Willoughby
Elaine and family
I am so sorry to hear of Jim passing. He was a respected and friendly gentleman, a friend who was easy to ask for advice. A fellow Mason and past Master of our lodge. He is missed and well remembered.
Janet Brown
Sendings hugs.
Our deepest sympathies
Chris Janet Brown
Deb Gehan
Dear Elaine
I have often thought of you and Jim since my retirement.
Please accept my sincere condolences for Jim’s passing. He was a kind and gentle soul.
He will be with you and your family thru all the memories you’ve created in your life together.
Sincerely
Deb Gehan
John and Sandy Ulch
Elaine
John and I send our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Paul & Mary Ellen Edwards
Elaine & family,
Paul and I send our deepest sympathy in the loss of Jim.
The career paths of Jim and Paul intersected many times.
Jim was always a pleasure to work with and a great friend to have.
Take care of yourself Elaine!
Elgin Austen
I’m very sorry to hear of Jim passing away. Jim was Best Man at our wedding on September 16, 1961. He had a flashy red Ford with a continental kit on the back. Which was the envy of many young guys. I worked with him for many years on London Police. He certainly was proud of Exeter and expressed this in many ways. He will long be remembered.
Dennis Hockey
Elaine and family:
My sincere condolences.
Jim was a classic example of a true gentleman.
His gentle manner and good nature made you feel comfortable and privileged to know him.
Bless you for your strength on his final days of his journey.
Tracey Stanlake
My sincerest condolences Elaine and family. I was deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing and of his courageous battle with such a disheartening disease. I often think of Jim when I see a piece of furniture and think Jim could fix that right up. I met him from our time at the ReStore and often inquired about him through Ellen. I enjoyed his stories (as well as yours) of his adventures and his time with my Mom in public school. I don’t think I had ever met such a kind hearted gentlemen and I will surely miss him.
Tracey Stanlake
Joyce Black
Elaine and family – Sincere sympathy to you and your family at this sad time in the passing of Jim. I cherish the piece of stained glass he made for me after I give him the stained glass Larry had and will always remember his kindness. Take care of each other in the days and months ahead.
Joan and Jim Moore
Elaine and family: You have our deepest condolences! Jim will be missed by all who knew him! He was a very kind and caring man who loved his family! Jim had a great sense of humour and to chat with anyone! Remember all the things he did for others! Cherish the memories! Sending our love to you all at this time of great sorrow.
Murray Hill
Elaine & Family:
My regrets and condolences to you all.
I was on the LPD when Jim joined. He immediately impressed me as a man of humour, honour and as a gentleman— which he was. He had a quick, honest smile that let you know he was willing to be your friend .
Regards— Murray Hill
Barbara Snoddy
Dear Elaine.
Sincere sympathy in this time of sorrow. Jim was so talented, he will be long remembered.
Joan Cleave
Elaine and Family;
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Jim.
He will be missed in your lives but all your memories will keep him still close in your hearts. Hugs at this sad time.
Joan
Darren Boyle
Elaine & Family,
My most kind condolences on the loss of Jim. Such great memories of spending time with both of you. He will be missed.
Frank Kints and Family
Bernice Joseph
Elaine and Family:
Was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing, have a lot of great memories.
My thought and prayers are with you at this most difficult time,
Ron thought so much of Jim, may he Rest in Peace.
Bernice josephm
Murray morrison
Very sorry to read of Jim’s passing. May fond memories be held close to your heart. Our prayers are with you and all your family.
Murray& Peggy
George and Sue Wilson
Elaine and family, heartfelt condolences on Jim’s passing. He was a true gentleman. He was a great detective. My Dad , Doug Insley, met Jim as a witness in a case Jim was was working. Cherish your precious memories. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Wayne & Chris DeLuca
Elaine and family , Please accept our sincerest condolences on Jim’s passing.
Always enjoyed talking with him at Probus, and meeting and chatting with him on his walks around the neighbourhood. Treasure all your special memories of your travels around the world and your wonderful family time together!
Wayne and Chris DeLuca
Tammi Yeoman
Elaine and Family,
Condolences to you and your family at this difficult time your in my thoughts and prayers.
MaryJane Taylor
Elaine and Families..
My Sincere Sympathy in your loss of Jim.
You both have journeyed the battle with a disease
that is not kind…May all your fond memories
be comforting in the times ahead.
He is now at peace…
Don and Laura Dixon
Elaine and family
Sending our sincere condolence to you. Hang on to all the wonderful memories you have of your time together.
Pauline and Joe Hogan
Dear Elaine and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Jim was so much fun to play pickleball with and we also enjoyed his company at Probus meetings. Sending hugs and prayers for you all during this difficult time.
Pauline and Joe
Mary Jane Mac Dougall
Elaine, Gord and families
I am very sad for you all in the loss of Jim. I smile as I remember how you Elaine, and Jim would always pitch in ( usually with lots of laughs) and help us any time there was a function at the Villa and you were there visiting. Also, who can forget that wonderful laugh! Jim has earned his rest. Take care of yourself Elaine.
Steve and Leanne Kennedy
Elaine and family, we were sad to hear about Jim’s passing. Please accept our deepest condolences. May memories of your many adventures being you peace and comfort during this difficult time ❤️
Bev&Hub Thiel
Our deepest condolences to Elaine and extended families. We both had many wonderful conversations and time spent at Lawson functions. The world has lost a great man. Lots of love from Hub & Bev
Joan Cleave
Elaine and Family;
I am saddened to hear of Jims passing.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
Hugs.
Kathy Kennedy
Dear Elaine & Holly & family: What can I say that hasn’t already been said. The obituary was beautiful.
You and Jim were such a lovely couple and he loved you dearly. May you find peace and strength to carry on and keep all the good memories with you to comfort you when you need it. Love, Kathy & Dave and the Kennedy and Brake families.
Barb Fleet
Elaine. My sincere condolences to you and your family. Jim was a wonderful neighbour and friend —a true gentleman who was a pleasure to know . Sending hugs at this very sad time . RIP Jim.
Ken Papple
Elaine , family- my sincere sympathy in the loss of your husband. Do treasure the many wonderful memories of your great times together.
Rienk Feddema
Elaine,
My condolences to you and your family. Jim was a great colleague and friend. I have many good memories of working cases with him in Ident and the good times we had on our golf trips. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Rienk
Melissa Parker
I can only imagine the sadness felt in losing your best friend, Lainey and your Dad, Holly. Sending you hugs and support ❤️. Melissa Parker
Yvonne/ Jim Barnetson
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Elaine and family!
Hold the good memories !
RIP Jim
Sam Epstein & Family
I will always remember the sincerity of Jim’s big smile and his solid, genuine hugs. ❤️
My thoughts are with you all during this time of profound loss.
May all the great memories you have of Jimmy bring you comfort and a smile to your faces through all the days ahead. xo
Anna Marie Cook
Elaine and family so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. So loved playing pickleball with and against Jim. What a great life you two had! Treasure all your memories.
Anna Marie and Casey Cook
Peter & Brenda Allen
Elaine & family: Sincere condolences for the passing of Jim. He was a wonderful friend and neighbour on Shadow Lane. He was the first person I met when we were moving into our condo 14 years ago. He came over to help me carry in some items. Enjoyed all our group dinners and playing “Pepper”. Also many golf games. He will be missed.
Brenda & Peter Allen
Wanda Reynolds
Elaine and Family
My thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow.
Wanda Reynolds
Ben and Susan Hoogenboom
Dear Elaine and Family,
Our heartfelt condolences to you, Elaine, and your family. We have so many wonderful memories of Jim, playing golf and pickleball, and his contagious smile and sense of humour. How fortunate we were to have known such an exceptional man!
Ben and Sue
John O'Flaherty
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jim.
Wishing you peace during this difficult time
Our thoughts are with you
Jutta & John O’Flaherty
Dianne Beattie
So sorry to hear of your loss Elaine and family !!
I hope with time, peace will heal and comfort your hearts ❤️
As you know I had a big crush on Jim in high school, he was always smiling !! He will be missed…….
Doris Granger
Dear Elaine,
Condolences to you and your family at this difficult time.
Doris Granger
Don & Joan Heywood
Elaine and family:
So sorry to read of Jim’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone at this difficult time. Cherish all the wonderful memories that are so close to your hearts. Hugs Don & Joan
Brian & Janet Wedlake
We are sad to hear the passing of Jim but we know he is now at peace. We have missed our Five O’clock hour in the back yard and
Playing card and sipping a little wine. He was a wonderful friend and we will miss him.
Peter McFalls
Elaine and family,
My thoughts are with you at this time.
Gwen Bestard
My sincerest, heart-felt sympathies to you, Elaine and your family. Although I was only recently acquainted with Jim and Elaine, I thoroughly enjoyed the bridge games we shared during Covid and always appreciated Jim’s kindness, joviality, and warmth when a guest in his home. Thankfully, Jim enjoyed a full, adventurous, robust and most interesting life which he was able to share with his very loving and loyal wife, Elaine. I was blessed to have met this wonderful man.
Judy Hodgins
Dear Elaine and all your family:
Sincere Sympathy,
Judy Hodgins
Shelly Toornstra
Elaine and family
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Cherish all the great memories, we will cherish our times we had with you and Jim.
Sam , Shelly and Lucas Toornstra
Ashley and Tyler McNaughton
Jeannine Vanneste
Dear Elaine My deepest sympathy on the passing of your dear husban Jim Thinking of you Love and prayer Jeannine Vanneste
Wendy Heimrich
Elaine and family,
My sincere condolences for your loss. Living around the corner from you in Bayfield, Jim always had his yard looking so immaculate. Elaine, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ann weir
My sincere condolences on the passing of Jimmy. You were both a wonderful couple and you made our trips with something I will never forget. My dear friend remember all the great trips and all the laughs we had over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Lots of Hugs
Wendi Schwindt
Elaine and family…I am so very sorry to hear about Jim…he was a true gentleman and such a kind and caring person.
Sharon Barron
We were so saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. I know he will be missed by many,especially you Elaine. In our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Sincerely
Richard and Sharon Barron
Bob and Helen Coates
Our sincere condolences for the loss of a dear husband, father, and grandpa. Also our sympathy to Iris and Gord. He was always friendly and a lot of fun. May your memories be a comfort to Elaine and all of the family.
Glenda
Dear Elaine and family, so sorry for your loss.
Such a loss of such a warm and loving friend.
Elaine, you and your family took great care of Jim. He will not be forgotten.
Glenda
Dear Elaine and family. Such a loss to such a terrible disease.
He loved his family and friends, and he was well-taken care of, and loved by all.
He will be sorely missed.
Love you Elaine!! My thoughts and prayers go with you at this very sad time.
Kris & Cal
Dear Elaine & family. So very sorry for your loss dear friend. We all will miss Jimmie so much. He was alway a true gentleman and dear friend. Sharing in your loss. Hugs Kris & Cal
Elaine Wallace
Elaine. I was so sorry to read of Jim’s passing. Although I have not seen you for a while I remember the wonderful laughs we always had together,
Please hold your memories close to you.
Thinking of you with lots of hugs.
Elaine Wallace
Vicki Parsons
So sorry Elaine to hear of Jim’s passing. I so enjoyed his great sense of humour during our visits and will surely miss him. Hugs to you.
Dave and Robin Prout
Dear Elaine,
Our condolences to you and your family. Jim was such a warm friendly man
with a great sense of humour. We enjoyed many Canada Day parties with you and Jim. He will
be dearly missed.
Cy & Eleanor Blommaert
Our deepest sympathy Elaine and family .
So sad to hear Jim has passed.
Our Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time
Hugs
Cy & Eleanor
Phil Turner
Jim always had a smile and great chats with all he met. Cherish the wonderful memories Elaine, you and your family hold.
Phil and Chris Turner
Cathy Batten
Dear Elaine. My sincere condolences to you & your Family at this difficult time. Treasure the Memories that you have him and share them with all to get through the days, weeks & months ahead. Thinking of you & sending hugs.
Cathy
Ken & Joan Agnew
We were very sad to hear of Jim’s passing. A long road for you, Elaine and know you will miss your “best friend”.
We always enjoyed Jim’s friendly and cheerful nature at Probus and pickleball.
Our sincere condolences, Ken & Joan
Joe Stock
Dear Elaine: I was a cadet on the LPF in 1972 and got to know Jim when I was so young. He was such a friendly man and had a good sense of humour. I really appreciated what he taught me about forensics in Ident. I also went duck hunting with him, Paul Thomas, Dave Lucio and others. What a great time we had. He was such a nice man. Sincere condolences to you and your family. A very GOOD Man.
Joe & Patricia Stock
Debbie
Elaine
Our condolences to you and your family. You and Jimmy are great friends to my parents. He will be missed.
Debbie & Dom Colangelo and family
Lyn & Sharon Jerome
Elaine, our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Warmest hugs to you.
Lyn & Sharon
Joan Turner
Dear Elaine, condolences to you and family re the passing of Jim, thought and prayers are with you and yours and I well remember some great times at Bayfield and the old revolver club do’s sincerely/JoanT T.
Irvine R. Armstrong
To Elaine and families. My condolences go out to you and your family. I was sorry to hear about Jim‘s passing. He was a great guy and will surely be missed. The two of you have done a lot of travelling and seen all kinds of country. All the best. Irv
Maureen Wood
My Sincere Condolences to you Elaine & Family, You will so miss your Jimmy,
Hugs my Friend.
Ellen Hodgins
Elaine and family…so sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. Always a pleasure to chat with him in the back yard and at Restore. RIP Jim.
Natalie Lockie
My sincerest condolences to Elaine and your family. I delivered your mail for many years and loved my chats with you and Jim, he gifted me with some photos of the penguins. I cherish them. Sincerely Natalie Lockie Mason
Joy Ross
Dear Elaine and family, My sincere sympathy to you on the passing of Jim, many a great time we had with you and him, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time, he had a great sense of humour and kindness, RIP Jimmy, Joy Ross,
Joy Ross
Dear Elaine and family, My sincere sympathy to you on the passing of Jim, I have many memories of him, he was a very warm, pleasant person to be in his company, many a good time we have had together, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, RIP Jimmy, Joy Ross, and family,
Alice and Jerry MacLean
Dear Elaine and Family,
We both offer love and support to you at this heart breaking time.
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Hugs, Alice and Jerry MacLean
Al and Heather Beattie
Elaine and family. Please accept our sincere condolences on Jim’s passing. Heather and i thoroughly enjoyed our bridge games with Jim, his sense of humour and his kind spirit. He will be missed.RIP.
alan W Keutsch
Elaine. I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Please know that I hold a very warm feeling for Jim in the dealings I have had with him over these many years. Take care of yourself and family
Gord & Kendra Craig
Our sincere sympathies to the entire Tomlinson family. I have so many great memories with Uncle Jim and loved his competitive and cajoling spirit. We will always cherish our copy of the Doors of the World.