Donald JAMES

Donald James, beloved husband, father, Afi, brother, and friend, passed peacefully in his home with family at his side.

Don lived a full life that began in his hometown of Edmonton, Alberta. He grew up on old radio shows, Oilers hockey games, playing cowboys with his siblings, and early morning chores, learning hard work, ethics, and determination from a young age.

At 16, he moved to B.C., where he apprenticed in carpentry with his father. It was there he met the love of his life, his wife Dianne, and they began their long life together. Don was much beloved by Dianne’s family, many of whom shared his passion for sports, went to games with him rain or shine, and enjoyed friendly sparring over rival teams. It was Dianne’s father, Ingvar, who eventually persuaded Don to cheer for the Canucks over the Oilers.

Don’s path eventually brought him to the Elk Valley where, with the help of family and friends, he chose a place to build the house in which he raised his children and would spend the rest of his life. As he once told Dianne, “As long as it’s structurally sound there isn’t anything I can’t build for you.”

It was also here that Don discovered and deepened his many passions, which included hunting with his brother Rick (eventually through a camera rather than a rifle scope), skiing, hiking, fishing, and golfing. He loved the peace of the outdoors, the lifelong friendships he made, and the strong community bonds of his new home. Through hard work, Don provided for his family while also enjoying his many interests, traveling with Dianne, and, in midlife, discovering the fellowship of motorcycle brotherhood.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dianne; his children: Jordan, Jolene (Curtis) Linfitt, and Robyn; his grandchildren, Hunter, and Keira; his brothers, Ed (Vivian), and Rick (Elsie); and his twin sister, Carol Novak. He will be missed dearly by his sisters-in-law, Sharleen Decillia and Shirley Johannesson, his brothers-in-law, David Johannesson (Carol), and Alan Johannesson (Barb), as well as many nieces and nephews whom he loved. Don will also be fondly remembered by his extended family, including Linda (Peter), Ralph (Shelley Mattersdorfer), Diane Brownell and leaves behind his beloved dog, Bessa.

He was predeceased by his father, Edward; his mother, Dorothy Dunn; and his brother, Robert.

Don will live on in the lives he touched, in his generosity to the community he loved, and, whether it was at card nights with friends or morning coffees with his siblings, inspiring laughter and joy in those around him.

In lieu of a service, the family asks that those who loved him remember him fondly and carry on his love of life. If desired, donations in Don’s memory may be made to Ride for Dad or the Canadian Cancer Society.

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