June 23, 1942 - June 9, 2021
Allen Russel James passed away peacefully at his home on June 9th, 2021, with his wife Doreen by his side. Allen was born in Vancouver BC, on June 23rd, 1942, to Allen Sr. and Florence James (nee Caughill).
He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Lorna (Ron) Stephen of Vanderhoof, Les (Barb) James of Ladysmith, Ed (Audrey) James of Lake Cowichan, Alvin (Carol) James of Tasmania, Velma (Claus Flemming) James-Schneider of Baden-Baden Germany, and Carol (Kevin Schinz) Heinekey of Lake Cowichan.
In 1962, Allen moved from Vancouver to Chilliwack, where he continued to reside until his passing. He is predeceased by his parents, Allen Sr. (in 2004) and Florence (in 1977) and first wife Irene (nee Monson, in 2013).
He is survived by his loving wife Doreen, son Terry (Nicole) and daughters Tammie (Kent) Dodds, Shelly James and Sheri (Mark) Janssen. Grandchildren, Kailyn, Connor, and Tanner Dodds, Liam and Josh Janssen and Devon Van Tongeren. And Doreen's children, sons Dennis Cook (Terrace, BC) Danny Cook (Red Deer, AB) and daughters Tammy (Dean) Thompson, Bonnyville, AB and Heather Cook (deceased).
While working towards completing his degree, Allen started his teaching career in Chilliwack, at the young age of 20. He was principal for many years in the Chilliwack School District (SD #33) including schools Greendale, Unsworth, McCammon, Robertson, Rosedale, retiring from Vedder Elementary after 38 years.
As if being a principal was not enough, Allen started on an agricultural venture with his son Terry. Together they started layer chickens and later switched to broilers. Allen was also a part of the BC Agriculture Council and served as a dedicated Chair on the Board for nearly 10 years. He was also a valued contributor to many other committees in the poultry sector.
Allen was greatly loved by all, and the memories made will be treasured.
A private service was held at the James Family Farm on Friday June 18th.