James Dean Krawchuk

Jimmy was born on October 10, 1964 to a loving family with two older sisters and soon followed by 2 younger sisters. He spent much of his childhood in and out of care facilities with his family following close behind. After Jimmy was granted public guardianship, he bounced around between caregivers and hospitals until eventually being matched with the Chen family. At 42 years old, Jimmy would appear to age backwards as his caregiver took him to conquer all 802 steps of the Calgary tower, out to the mountains for camping trips, and much, much more. A true lover of life, there were few things that wouldn't cause his eyes to glow with curiosity. From bugs to flowers, cars to trains, tools to toys, Jimmy would embrace it all. He enjoyed long days sitting in the grass catching wayward insects and looking at flowers just as much as flipping through a book in the living room. A truly pure and kindred spirit, Jimmy would never dwell or complain. He was, however, a prankster at heart and wouldn't hesitate to hide your things as soon as you turned your back. Jimmy's favorite days were Christmas and birthdays. As far as he was concerned, any birthday was his birthday. He was mesmerized by candles and twinkling Christmas lights, and in his world, all presents were his to open.

Though mostly wheelchair bound, he bore an unwavering tenacity to all things challenging. Whether motivated by a prank, a toy, or when there was simply nowhere else to go but forward, Jimmy would always place one foot in front of the other. It is undoubtedly through this tenacity that he has endured to this day.

Though long separated, Jimmy will be lovingly remembered by his biological family - his mother, Elsie, and his sisters, Elaine, Patsy, Diane, and Connie. He will also be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by the Chen family - his caregiver, Su Fen, and his friends, Li Zhen and Jason.

A Private Funeral Service will be held at Foster's Garden Chapel, 3220 - 4 Street N.W., Calgary.