James Allan Waters

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden death of Jim Waters, a devoted husband to Sheila (née McLarty) for 43 years, dedicated father to Maxine (Andrew Crone) and Ellie Mae (Jeremy Wood-Ross), brother to Sherry (Sean Bourne) and Ron (Leslie), proud uncle to several nieces and nephews, and a loyal friend to many. He is predeceased by his loving parents, Allan and Marjorie Waters. Jim died at home unexpectedly, leaving an unbearable void in the lives of his family and many others who experienced Jim’s caring, kind, and generous spirit.

As Jim often said, family came first. His unwavering dedication to Sheila and their daughters, Maxine and Ellie Mae, was the cornerstone of his life. Jim had a remarkable gift for being present, always showing up for his girls with a steadfastness that never wavered. His eyes would light up with a glimmer of pride and joy as he listened to their stories, offering advice that was as thoughtful as it was wise. To Sheila, he was not only a devoted partner but the embodiment of love and admiration; the sparkle in his eye for her was the envy of all who witnessed it. His love extended to Andrew and Jeremy, whom he welcomed into the family with open arms. He was like a father to them both, offering unconditional love—so long as they took good care of his girls. A deeply attentive husband and father, Jim had a way of ensuring every little detail was just right, creating moments of comfort and connection for his family. From cherished dinners at the Buckhorn Lake cottage to magical Christmas mornings, Jim reveled in these simple yet profound moments, where his love for his family shone brightest.

Outside of his family, the broadcasting business and hockey were his passions, but it was his love of music that led him into the family business where he worked with his dad, a broadcasting icon. Jim started his 35-year career as an assistant to the music director and ultimately worked his way up to leading the radio division of CHUM Limited before becoming its Chairman. Jim embraced his father’s values and wisdom: be humble, be honest, and treat people as you would expect to be treated. As a result, Jim built teams that made CHUM a force in radio broadcasting across Canada. He was recognized in the industry as Broadcasting Executive of the Year at Canadian Music Week in 2001 and was inducted into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame in 2007.

Jim retired when CHUM Limited was sold in 2007 and turned his attention to other interests. In 2015, Jim recognized an opportunity to combine his love of hockey with ownership of an OHL franchise. He bought the Erie Otters Hockey Club. A short two years later, in May 2017, with a talented team of players that he admired, and his beloved family by his side, he raised the Robertson Cup, awarded to the Ontario Hockey League champion, Erie Otters. This experience further ignited his determination to building the character of a championship team. Jim was also an avid Toronto Maple Leafs fan and regularly attended their games but if the Erie Otters were playing, he was on the road to Erie with Sheila.

As a young child and throughout his life, Jim spent holidays and summers at the family cottage on Buckhorn Lake. Nothing brought him more joy than when his children arrived at the cottage—whether joining him and Sheila for a sunset boat ride or enjoying a Glenlivet on the dock, his smiling eyes with their glint told the story.

In typical Jim style, he preferred to exercise his philanthropy quietly but generously. Many charities benefitted from his significant support, and he regularly and enthusiastically sponsored countless friends who participated in charitable fund-raising events.

The Waters family is humbled by the outpouring of support and love from Jim’s and his family’s friends, business associates, and especially the young men who continue to lace up their skates through this challenging time without their leader extraordinaire.

Jim’s genuine interest in people was a superpower, allowing him to build lifetime connections and friendships with individuals from varying backgrounds, up to and including NHL stars.

Last Saturday night in Erie, with an emotion-fueled performance, the Erie Otters honoured Jim with a resounding victory. At the end of the game, the Team gathered at center ice and pointed their sticks to Jim’s empty seat, a powerful gesture of their respect and deep appreciation for his exceptional leadership and personal mentorship. Although we are heartbroken that the Erie Otters’ number one fan and owner has left the Erie arena for the last time, Jim would insist that the game must go on.

Celebration of Jim’s Remarkable Life and Legacy will be held at the Windsor Arms Hotel, 18 St. Thomas Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E7 at 12:00 noon on Friday, December 20, 2024.

If you would like to make a donation in Jim’s memory, please donate to the charity of your choice or to Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart in support of underprivileged children who wish to play hockey - jumpstart.canadiantire.ca

Nothing would make Jim happier than knowing his passing has provided a child with the opportunity to play the game he loved.