Obituary of James Gold Paterson

James Gold "Jim" Paterson "Tex" 1926 - 2015 It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jim Paterson announces his passing on October 14, 2015 after a brief illness at East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook. Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was 89. Jim was born in the old Kimberley Hospital on June 12, 1926, the third of five children to Henry and Clementine Paterson. Jim grew up in Townsite on 3rd Avenue, and began work at CM & S (Cominco) at the age of eighteen, retiring after 40 years of service. During World War II, Jim enlisted in the Canadian Forces, but the war ended just before he was sent overseas. Jim married the love of his life, Joyce Williams, in 1948, and together they raised three sons, Terry, Jack and Kevin. Between 1980 and 1992, Jim and Joyce delighted in welcoming seven grandchildren, and playing integral roles in all of their lives. At the time of his passing, Jim was "Great Papa" or "Great" to five great-granddaughters. Family was the cornerstone of Jim's life, and he was equally loved in return. He cherished raising a "small smash" with friends, cheering for his grandkids' numerous teams, and was always in attendance at all their activities. Jim also dedicated much of his life to his community by serving with the Kimberley Fire Department, Ambulance Service, and as a Director on the City Parks Board. Jim helped clear the land at the site of the Townsite rink and spent innumerable nights flooding the outdoor rink for the neighbourhood kids to skate on. In later years, Jim became the Trail Street Grandpa, where kids would stop for a "peppymint" or Werther's candy treat on their way home from school. Jim is survived by his three sons Terry (Shirley), Jack (Kathy) and Kevin (Michelle). He is further survived by his seven grandchildren Paula (Josh) Merk; Tracy (Jamie) Russell; Nathan Paterson; Jesse Paterson; Justin (Jodie) Paterson, Brendan Paterson and Rhiannon Paterson; as well as his five great-granddaughters Reese and Drew Merk; and Sayler, Paisley and Piper Russell. He is also survived by two sisters, Barbara Curtis and Mabel (Jim) Glennie, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his parents; sister Betty; brother George; and wife Joyce. At Jim's request a Family Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2016 whereby Jim and Joyce will be interred together at the Kimberley Cemetery Columbarium. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com