June 21, 1926 - March 31, 2020
Jim Baker of Chilliwack, BC passed away peacefully March 31, 2020 at the Chilliwack General Hospital.
Born Albert James Baker June 21st 1926 he grew up in Redcliffe, Alberta before moving to Ladner, BC. Eager to follow his older siblings, he joined the Pacific Coast Militia at
age 16 before joining the Navy on January 25, 1944. There, he learned the electrical trade and was active in the North Atlantic Convoy until being honourably discharged January 22, 1946.
He eventually met the love of this life, "Viv"Vivian Agnes Stuckel, and married February 29, 1952. The couple lived in Terrace, BC before moving to Chilliwack in 1959 where they lived out the rest of their lives.
Jim initially worked for Alec Howie Electric until Alec's retirement when JB Electric was established (1970 - 1990). Jim was known as an honourable contractor and each daughter has a treasured memory of helping their father ranging from directing traffic as he changed signal lights, "helping" at the Chilliwack Fall Fair and keeping him company on job sites.
Despite a demanding business, both Jim and Viv were active members of the ANAVETS and Lion's Club of Chilliwack. Jim had a wonderful sense of humour, enjoyed practical jokes, and relished in making people laugh. His enjoyment of the local area was fed through many a lazy afternoon drive.
Jim was predeceased by his wife Vivian Agnes, son "Robbie" Robert James, and siblings "Bob" Robert, "Buck" Walter and Mae. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law Sharon Stewart, Judy and Jim North, and Deborah and Barry Woelders; his grandchildren Greg Stewart (Louise), Kimberley Burns (Daniel), Lindsey Schacter (Tyler), Lance Davies (Tedra), Jason Woelders (Shanna), Melissa Krul (Mike), Eric Woelders (Amber) and Dylan Woelders (Sarah). As well, he was blessed with13 great-grandchildren Samuel, Ruth, Zachary and Jonathan Burns; Theodore and Edison Schacter; Kasey and Logan Davies; Cameron, Alex and Lianna Woelders; Kazem, Jude and Kasia Krul; and Makayla and Abigail Woelders.
The family would like to thank the residents, management and staff at the Lynnwood Retirement Residence for the laughter, caring and friendship shown to Jim over the past 8 years; and Dr. Nel, Fraser Health and the Chilliwack General Hospital personnel and especially staff on 5 North for the care they provided.
For many years Jim and Viv contributed to the BC Children's Hospital in recognition of the support received for their son, Robbie. In memory of this tradition and in lieu of flowers, the family asks for contributions to be made to BC Children's Hospital.
Due to the current extraordinary circumstances a celebration of his life will be held at a future date.