It is with deepest sorrow and regret we announce the passing of James Kenneth Robertson. Born in Ladysmith on February 19, 1926 to Julia Irene and Thomas Alexander Robertson.
He is survived by Joan his loving wife of 58 years, his son Jim (Laurie) and daughters Janice (Pat) and Lynn (Liam), loving grandchildren Karina (Clint), Chad (Tara), Rory (Anika), Morgan, Kirsten (Rahim) and great grandchildren Kayleen, Montana, Oriah, Jada, Ethan, Shelby and another arrival expected in January.
Jim was predeceased by his mother and father and his only brother Thomas (Tuck) and nephew Douglas. Jim lived his childhood in Ladysmith working in his parents store on High Street. Lying about his age he joined the navy when he was 17 and served as an able seaman on the H.M.C.S. Uganda during the second world war.
Returning from active duty in the Pacific, Jim married Joan Maxine Mary Chadwick. They continued to live in Ladysmith for the next two years and having their son while residing there. Later they moved to Jinglepot Road in Nanaimo for the remainder of his life.
Jim was an active member in the East Wellington Volunteer Fire Department from 1950 to 1985 serving side by side with many of his long time friends and neighbours.
Jim was employed by the I.L.W.U. and worked as a longshoreman for 34 years until he had to retire in 1988 due to health reasons. Jim was fondly referred to by his workmates as Fifer, a name he loved and was proud to be called which remained with him right to the end.
Before becoming ill Jims greatest pleasure was to grab his fishing rod, his one man dinghy and ol’ Tuffers and head for the “high seas” at Neck Point. It was a rare day when a fish was caught but that did not deter him, it was all about the adventure.
Jims remaining years were spent at home “his safe place” reading in his sunroom, watching TV and having long, thoughtful discussions that took him into the wee hours of the morning with his best friend and the love of his life...Our hearts are broken, we’ll miss you so,
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow
I am the diamond glints on the snow
I am the sunlight on ripened grain
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the mornings hush
I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight
I am the soft stars that shine at night
Do not stand at my grave and cry I am not there.
I did not die.
A public viewing was held at Sands Funeral Chapel on Friday, November 11, 2005 between 6:00 and 8:00 pm. Funeral Mass was held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, November 12, 2005 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 301 Machleary Street, Nanaimo.
In remembrance of Jim please wear a poppy.