August 31, 1935 — July 5, 2005
(Loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and teacher)
After a year-long battle with lung cancer, Jim Farrell passed away on July 5, 2005 at 12:34am in Chilliwack General Hospital. His loved ones were at his side as he slipped peacefully away.
Jim was born in Elma County, Ontario to Russel and Pearl (Gooding) Farrell. He enlisted in the Army in January 1956 and was posted to Camp Chilliwack. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers in 3 Field Squadron and also played the side drum in the military band. In April 1965 he received his honorary discharge.
Jim was a member of the Carpenters Union Locals 1843 and 1907, working Union jobs from 1965 to 1972. From 1972 to 1990 he was self-employed as a carpenter doing renovating and remodeling jobs and during this time also volunteered as a member of the colour party with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 4. From 1981 to 2000, Jim and his wife were actively involved with the Chilliwack Rhythm Reelers Square Dance Club. For the past 15 years he worked as Maintenance Supervisor for Thousand Trails, Cultus Lake until his forced retirement due to this horrible disease.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Gail, his two sons, Rob (Cathryn) and Tim, and his daughter Cathy (Dave) Legg.
Grandpa/Papa will be lovingly remembered by his six grandchildren, Justin, Andrew, Taylor, Rachel, Nicole and Jacob; his extended family, Diana and Gary Dick, Donna and Roy Anderson, Rick Furniss, Sheila Farrell; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Armando Diaz and Kuma Lynn and the rest of his wonderful friends.
The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Paul Basson and the Palliative Care Nurses at Chilliwack General Hospital, especially Margot (1), Sharon, Monica, Marilyn, Olga, Gloria, Dean, Nick, and Jim’s favourite, Ian who gave so much more. Also, special thanks to Rev. Seamus Mackrell, Hospital Chaplain and the Hospice volunteers.
A memorial service is planned for 11:00am on Saturday, July 23 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 8909 Mary St., Chilliwack. Rev. Seamus Mackrell officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Jim’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society for cancer research or the Chilliwack Hospice Society.
Jim will be sadly missed but his outstanding carpentry skills have been requested elsewhere.