James "Jim" Francis Mitchell

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of James Francis Mitchell, fondly known as Jim, on August 17, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on September 16, 1942, in Rochford, Essex, England, Jim was a man of great warmth, generosity, and spirit, who touched the lives of everyone he met.

Jim was the beloved son of the late James and Edith Mitchell. He is predeceased by his siblings Daphne (Richard) and John (Joyce), and is survived by his brother Ray, as well as many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

On April 24, 1965, Jim married his soul mate, Margaret Jeanne Mitchell (nee Gowers). Together, they built a loving family, raising three children: James Ian Mitchell, born October 23, 1965, who passed away on September 1, 1992; Richard Stephen Mitchell, born May 19, 1968, who passed away as an infant on December 22, 1968; and their daughter, Tina Suzanne Mitchell, born October 1, 1970, who survives him, along with her husband, Dave.

Jim was a proud grandfather to Samantha (Blake) and Joanna (Ryan), and a great-grandfather to Lukas, Charlie, and Liam. He was also a devoted step-grandfather to Gabriella (Bradley) and Tyler (Jason), and step-great-grandfather to Kaden, Kaeleb, and Willow.

Jim’s career began in England, where he apprenticed as an electronics technician, and worked at various jobs before expanding his horizons by managing a hire car company while continuing to hone his technical skills. In 1974, after the birth of their third child Tina, Jim and his family immigrated to Canada and settled in Kamloops. There, he worked as an electronics technician at Grandview TV, and Giddens Services. Jim was involved in the community as an active member of the Valleyview Lions Club, the Kamloops Ham Radio Club, coaching youth soccer, and as a volunteer in other community programs. In 1981, the family moved to New Zealand, where Jim was the Managing Director for Petrolon New Zealand, creating a distribution network for Petrolon’s Slick 50 products across the country. In 1984, Jim and his family returned to Kamloops, where he continued to work in various sales management roles including Stereo Warehouse and several years with Terry Trophy & Awards. His adventurous spirit led him in various entrepreneurial ventures (not always successful!), until his retirement in 1998 due to health issues.

Jim was a man of deep faith, and his spiritual journey was significant to him. He joined the Anglican Church of Cleopas in 1984, and was an active member until its closure in 2008. Jim’s faith journey continued at St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Kamloops, where his involvement in the church community was marked by his participation in the choir - his love for music and singing shone brightly, and his solo rendition of The Lord’s Prayer was loved by all who heard him sing.

Jim’s personality was larger than life. He was known for his infectious smile, welcoming handshakes, and warm hugs which made everyone feel instantly comfortable. He was a man of immense loyalty, positivity, and affection, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. Jim’s dependability and kindness endeared him to all who knew him.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim’s life. He cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, playing an instrumental role in their upbringing and nurturing. Jim also had a passion for life that was evident in his many interests, including fishing, Ham and CB Radio, painting, singing, playing board games, telling funny stories, listening to music, watching movies, playing pool, and simply relaxing with loved ones. He especially loved traveling in his motorhome, and spent many winters as a Snowbird in the southern states.

In 2017, Jim was diagnosed with dementia and began his involvement with the Alzheimer’s Society, a cause close to his heart. His dedication to the society was recognized in 2022 when he was proclaimed the Kamloops Honouree for that year’s Alzheimer’s walk—a moment of immense pride for him.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and unwavering support. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral on October 5, 2024 at 2:00 pm – 360 Nicola Street, Kamloops.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jim’s name to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC, continuing his legacy of compassion and service.

Rest in peace, Jim. Your memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

"Be the best of whatever you are."

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.