James “Jim” Clemiss passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones at the North Bay Regional Health Centre on Friday, August 27th, 2020 in his 87th year of life.
Jim will be dearly missed by the love of his life and wife of 60 years, June Clemiss, while immensely loved by his daughters Tracey (Paul Cauchy) and Cindie (John D’Agostino), and greatly admired by his grandchildren Jarret (Emily Andrews), Brad, Adam (Caitlin Randall), and Dagmar. Jim is predeceased by his siblings Anne (Stan Scott), Beulah (Harry Hall), and Keith (Olive Peter).
Jim’s wife, June, describes him as the kindest and most patient man (especially since he lived with three strong women) and feels incredibly blessed to have had him in her life. Everyone who was lucky enough to have Jim in their life knew that they could always count on him. Jim was known for his sense of humour, the distinct and contagious sound of his laugh, and his great sense of adventure.
Jim told stories about his early years as a world traveller who left South Porcupine on a ship heading for Australia and frequently spoke about how proud he was to have worked on the D.E.W line.
Jim’s daughters Tracey and Cindie can recall his involvement in their many endeavours whether it be flooding the ice for their ringette games or boating their friends to and from the Manitou Islands. Most importantly, he taught his daughters life lessons, to be kind, to be patient, to find the humour in any predicament, and how to love unconditionally.
Jim’s grandchildren will be forever grateful for the life lessons he shared, from anything between baiting a hook or patching a hole in a wall to learning how to drive a car for the first time, Grandpa was their go-to guy. His grandchildren can all recall countless hours Jim spent on the sidelines at their sporting events to cheer them on. No matter how far or how cold it was, they could always count on his support.
He will be remembered by his friends who would join him on hunting trips to Manitoulin Island and fishing trips in his boat on Lake Temagami (you know who you are).
All who worked with Jim during his 34 years at Union Gas described him as a dedicated co-worker and boss who went above and beyond for his employees and considered him a great mentor.
He is fondly remembered by many for his giving heart. Whether it was resources, knowledge, or an opportunity, Jim would always lend a hand to those in need in whatever way he could.
The family would like to thank Dr. Choy from Sunnybrook Hospital and Dr. Trenker from North Bay for the many years of care and advocacy.
As per Jim’s wishes, there will be a private celebration of life with his family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rheumatology Department at Sunnybrook Hospital in memory of Jim.