CAMPBELL - James Mathie
At home in Campbellford, ON, on Sunday March 16, 2014, in his 83rd year, James ‘Jim’ was granted his final wish to pass peacefully surrounded by family. Beloved husband of Catherine (nee Butt) and the late Marie (1972); loving father of David (Ludovina) of Calgary, Peter (Jeannine) of Wellesley, and Jeffrey (Gillian) of Drayton; cherished Grandpa of Nolan, Emily, Jacob, Isaiah, and Dominique. Predeceased by brother John.
Born in Glasgow in 1931, son of John and Agnes (Nancy nee Calder), Jim was just 19 years of age when he left his homeland. Arriving in Canada August 14th, 1950, Jim brought with him his love of sport as he was a lifelong football fanatic who not only played in his early years, but also followed his favourite team, Manchester United, and all European Football, with a keen eye and a sharp wit. Jim enjoyed a long successful career as manager of several Canadian Tire stores. A trusted and respected store manager, Jim got his start with, Markham owner, Lloyd Greenwood. Most of his career, Jim worked with friend and Guelph owner Al Fergusson until his retirement, in 1993.
A staunch friend to the late Bruce Wheeler and his wife Bev, together, Jim and Cathy enjoyed many Florida adventures to Madeira Beach. Jim and Bruce were like Abbot and Costello - in stature and mirth - and loved practical jokes. An avid golfer, Jim played many Canadian and U.S. courses and was a past member of the Guelph Country Club. An amateur chef, who mastered the art of barbequing – timing, heat, and flavour – he enjoyed entertaining family and friends with gourmet meals, all lovingly prepared from scratch. For many years, Jim also enjoyed boating. It brought him great pleasure to be on the water in his 27-foot Trojan, docked at Wiarton harbour. An inveterate traveler, Jim carefully researched and planned trips to Costa Rica, Portugal and Newfoundland. Perhaps his most memorable trip was in 2006 when, after an absence of more than 56 years, together with sons David and Peter, he ‘returned home’ to Scotland. A proud devoted father, engaging ‘grapna’ (grandpa), he was also a wonderful brother-in-law to Sue and Frank, and Dee and Tim. Jim also loved his dogs, many of whom were called Sam. Whether purebred or rescued from the pound, Jim would walk country roads for miles, just to enjoy the unique bond between a man and his dog. Jim was a master winemaker and together with his wife, Cathy, spent many hours perfecting timing, taste, and texture. He lived his life with pride, with purpose and with passion. If there was a right way to do something, he’d find it.
The family wishes to thank CCAC nurses, Hospice volunteers, friends and neighbours for their care and support.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration gathering will be held in the Spring. Family and friends are invited to share their memories and pictures, make online donations (Salvation Army), or post condolences through www.wmkippfuneralhome.com

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