James Maurice Bird

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Maurice Bird on April 11, 2024. He battled several forms of cancer since 2022 with an undeniably optimistic spirit to fight until the very end.

Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years Alberta, daughter Karen (Boyd) Patton, son Scott (Janelle) Bird, daughter Paula (Tim) Doig, and 4 grandchildren — Ryland Bird, Sydni Bird, Coleton Fisher, and Taylor Fisher — who were his pride and joy.

Jim was born on August 19th, 1940 in Rouleau, Saskatchewan to Ella (Rooney) and James “Bud” Bird. He joined the RCMP at 18 and served for 35 years specializing in forensic identification. He met Alberta in Fort Nelson, BC and they were married in Edmonton, halfway between their 2 families. Family was most important to them and they raised theirs as they worked, played, lived, and travelled. He retired in 1994 to Vernon, BC where he spent 24 years enjoying golfing, skiing, visiting his children and grandchildren and travelling with his wife.

The family wants to send a very special thank you to all the care workers and nursing staff at Hospice House in Vernon, the nursing staff at the Vernon Jubilee Cancer Clinic and especially Drs. Waldron, Hardy, & Rankin who went above and beyond for him in his final years.

He was so loved and will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donations to North Okanagan Hospice House, the Vernon Jubilee Cancer Clinic, or a charity of your choice in his name.

As a Family, we are taking some time together. We will celebrate Jim’s life at the Vernon Golf & Country Club on July 7, 2024, 2-4 pm. All are welcome and we ask that you please contact the family to confirm your attendance if you wish to attend.

——————