JAMES `JIM’ VAN

JAMES ‘JIM’ VAN June 21, 1943 ~ December 11, 2024
With the heaviest of hearts, the family of JAMES ‘JIM’ VAN, beloved husband of Margaret, announce his passing at the Medicine Hat Care Community on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the age of 81years.
Jim was a loving and gentle man who gave his heart and soul to everything he did. He was very active in Real Estate in BC, where he honed his renovation skills. Later in life Jim utilized those skills in his business called “Jim Dandy Renovations.” Jim loved animals and over the years he and Margaret rescued many dogs: Jamie, Charlie, Kazan and Tucker. Jim was born in Vancouver B.C. He married his first wife, Pamela Johnson on November 13, 1965, and they were blessed with two children, Robert Van in 1966 and Barbara Van in 1969, sharing many adventures and lots of laughter. Sadly, Pam passed away from cancer on April 19, 1995. Jim and Margaret met through his involvement in Real Estate and they married on May 10, 1996. Through this marriage, Jim gained two bonus daughters, Buffy and Brandi.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Gordon and Leola (Jean) Van; his first wife, Pam and Pam’s parents, Bernard and Joyce Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Van; brothers, Allan (Judith) and Kenney (Allison); children, Robert “Bob” (Tracy) and Barbara as well as his bonus daughters, Buffy (Richard) and Brandi. Jim was also known as “Gumpy” to his grandchildren: James Van, John Nicholas Van, Pamela Margaret “Maggie” Van, Tyeson Verhoeven, Taylor Verhoeven, Jackson Keaney and Griffin Keaney. “Rest easy dad, we love you!” The family would like to thank the staff at Good Samaritans and Medicine Hat Care Community for the care they provided to Jim over the last few years.
A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street SW, Medicine Hat on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. Memorial donations in Jim’s name may be made directly online to Special Olympics Canada.
Cook Southland Funeral Chapel Crematorium & Reception Facility 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 www.cooksouthland.com “Locally owned & directed”