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(Jim)

The families of James (Jim) Barrett are very sad to inform you that on May 22, 2010 he passed away after a short battle with cancer. He was in his 76th year.

Jim was born in Chilliwack on October 14, 1934 and lived here his entire life. He grew up in the Atchelitz area. He attended Atchelitz Elementary and Chilliwack High School. Jim was one of a large group of children who lived in the area. They would jump on their bikes riding for miles, hanging out and getting into as much mischief as possible playing ‘pranks’ by letting neighbors’ cows out, moving an outhouse, dismantling milk stands – all in good fun! He formed life long friendships with many.

In 1943 a new family moved to the area and he met Hazel Mary Peters and his fate was sealed!

In 1948 Jim was in grade 8 at Chilliwack High School and Hazel in grade 7 at Central School. The bus trips finalized the deal – they were an ‘item’. Jim was 14. Hazel 13.

In 1952 they started dating seriously and were married on April 29, 1955 at the home of Jim’s parents, Hattie & Bob on Lickman Road. They moved to their own home on Quarry Road.

On April 21, 1963 their son was born. Robert James. What a happy day that was! Jim loved and adored his only son. Bobby was the joy of Jim’s life. As Bobby grew up playing hockey and lacrosse- Jim was always in the stands proudly cheering him on. He attended tournaments travelling all over the province.

Every fall he went hunting with his father-in-law, Alex and brother-in-law, Art. They were named the ‘AJA Hunters” (Alex, Jim, Art) by his mother-in-law, May. They hunted the areas of Fraser Lake, Burns Lake and Vanderhoof. How much real hunting went on – no one was ever sure.

In 1979 Jim was diagnosed with widespread cancer. He fought such a battle. He was quoted as saying during this time, “I don’t care about dying – I’ve lived a good life. I’m just sorry I won’t see my son grow up!”

After endless treatments and near death, Jim received a gift, one of which he was forever grateful. It was a gift that lasted 31 years. He won the battle and not only got to see his son Bobby grow up and marry Rhonda but was here to watch his grandson Brady grow up. He attended all of Brady’s soccer, lacrosse games and school functions. Now being a proud Grandpa!

Jim was 15 years old when he went to work as a Laborer in the Fraser Canyon during road building days of the 50’s. He then became an employee with the Chilliwack Municipality at age 16 and was there for 44 years until his retirement in 1994. During those years he held many positions such as Foreman, Inspector, Superintendent and driver. Many family Christmas/Boxing Day dinners found Jim driving the snow plough up to the family gathering, eating a hasty turkey dinner and with the truck motor still running he was off again to clear the streets of snow.

Jim was a Volunteer Fireman for the city of Chilliwack Hall #1 for 35 years and as a member of the Anavets 305 he was the First Associate member and later became the first Life Member. He eagerly participated in all events & fundraisers associated in the unit. He was also a long time member of the Chilliwack Senior Veteran’s Society and member of the Federal Superannuation National Association. Jim was an avid dart player at the Anavets, winning many trophies on the Fraser Valley Dart League.

Along with his good friend Edna Gale, they travelled several times across Canada and the United States hauling the fifth wheeler, visiting Newfoundland and even to Labrador!

Their closer to home adventures found them spending time camping at the “Glen” Maple Falls, U.S.A.

His parents Bob & Hattie Barrett; his parent in-laws Alex and May Peters; wife Hazel Barrett; nephew Daniel Bitz; brothers Ralph Humphreys and John Humphreys predeceased Jim.

He is survived by his only son Bob & Rhonda Barrett; grandson Brady Barrett; sister Mary & Pete Davies; brother-in-law Art & Loretta Peters; sister-in-law Sharon & Norm Chambers; nephews Ronald Peters; Wesley & Laurel Peters; Michael Chambers and nieces Cheryl & Richard Sheremeto; Stacey Chambers and numerous great nieces and nephews and good friend Edna Gale.

The family sends special thanks to the Head Nurses at Palliative Care – Dean, Monica, Theresa and staff for their tender care of Jim during his last battle.

Bob, Rhonda & Brady would like to also thank all their friends and relatives for their kind words of comfort and help through this difficult time “saying a final good-bye” to their dad, father-in-law and grandpa.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 29th at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Henderson’s Funeral Home: 45901 Victoria Ave., Chilliwack.

Please join the family & friends at a reception following the service at the Anavets 305: at 46268 Yale Road E., Chilliwack. A luncheon will be served.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency or Chilliwack Minor Lacrosse Player Association.

Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com



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