James Burton Seale

James Burton Seale (Jim) was born in Vermilion, Alberta during harvest-time in 1940 and died during harvest time in 2024. He grew up on a farm in the Battleview area, north of Wainwright, Alberta.

Jim graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1962. In the 1970s, he founded Seale Engineering Ltd. where he worked until the end of January 2024 -over 60 years as a practicing mechanical engineer! Throughout his lifetime, Jim volunteered on many committees and in organizations related to engineering. He also mentored new engineers.

Jim married Pat Gander in 1965. As a young adult, he enjoyed driving in drag races. In the 1980's, he achieved one of his childhood dreams and became a private airplane pilot. Since then, he has flown over many parts of North America. He even built an airplane with a friend. He also volunteered in several organizations associated with flying, including being a pilot with the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association(CASARA).

Jim is survived by his wife, Pat, daughters Elizabeth and Catherine, his grandsons Christoph and Malcolm, and his sisters Jean Babiak and Anne Warrington. He will be missed by his extended family, friends and colleagues.

A Memorial Service for Jim will be held at Southminster-Steinhauer United Church at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 27.

Donations in memory of Jim Seale would be appreciated by The George Ford Endowment Fund in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Alberta (uabgive.ca/tribute) or Southminster-Steinhauer United Church (https://ssucedmonton.com/donate) or a charity of your choice.