The Reverend Canon James Albert Kiddell

July 27, 1934 - November 11, 2024

Jim, in his 91st year, died peacefully this week in Kelowna, surrounded and loved by his family: cherished wife Lee (Natalie, née Norris), daughters Karen Kiddell and Deborah Wade, and granddaughters Charlotte and Kalli Kiddell. He will also be missed by his grandchildren Ben, Alexandra, and Dominic Wade.

Jim was born and grew up in St. Catharines, Ontario; son of Arthur and Charlotte (née Graham), the youngest brother to Keith (Marion) and Robert (Joyce).

Jim was both a “graduate of the year” at his local public school and a high school dropout. After several summers as a Junior Ranger with the Department of Lands and Forest – with thoughts of making a career in forestry – Jim instead returned to St. Catharines, completed his high school diploma, carried on to earn his Bachelor of Arts at Huron College, University of Western, and then enrolled in the Divinity program at Trinity College, University of Toronto.

Ordained by the Anglican Diocese of Toronto, Jim was proud to be honored as a Canon in 1993, and honored by the Diocese again in 2022 for his 60 years of Ministry. Remarkably, most of those 60 years were active ones. Starting as an assistant at St. Andrew’s Scarborough, he was then appointed incumbent to the rural parishes of Colborne and Grafton. His parishes included St. Stephen’s and St. Matthias in Toronto, and St. Luke’s in Peterborough. In his “retirement,” Jim took on interim Ministries in the Kelowna area at Peachland, St. Mary’s, and as Regional Dean at the Cathedral Church of St. Michael’s and All Angels.

A committed pastor to his ever expanding flock, Jim cared for all people with love and compassion. He was quick to offer the invitation to “come on in,” sent innumerable birthday notes, was always available to hold a hand during difficult times and offer words of comfort, as he made visits to homes and hospitals, bringing Communion that was cherished by so many. For many years Jim was sought out by parishioners past and present to bring his warmth to Baptisms, Weddings, and Celebration of Life services.

Jim’s pastoral commitment extended to his communities as welI: Chair of the Troubled Child Program in North York; Director and Founder of Youth Clinical Services at York Finch Hospital; President of Etobicoke YWCA; Facilitator in Restorative Justice Programs; a British Columbia Commissionaire; and a Member of the Victims’ Service Program of BC. In his later years as he ran errands with his dog pal, Winston, he was never without a joke – usually a groaner – but always intended to offer a random connection and provoke a smile.

In their 63 years of marriage, Jim and Lee were known as warm and generous hosts to many at lively dinner parties, open houses, and festive occasions. Enthusiastic travelers, they also very successfully hosted more than 50 tours with Craig Travel and happily journeyed all over the world, accumulating treasured memories and valued friendships.

The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and thoughtful care given to Jim by the staff of Hospice House.

A Service in Celebration and Thanksgiving for the Life of Jim will be held on Friday, November 15th, 1:00 pm at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Kelowna.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Jim’s name.