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August 8, 1937 – March 6, 2026

Jim passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on March 6, 2026, at 88 years of age, leaving a legacy of hard work, athletics and deep devotion to his family. He will be dearly missed. Born to Jessie and Fred Thirkill, Jim was defined by his commitment to his family and friends. He shared 64 years of marriage with his wife, Merle, building a life based in Sudbury that was filled with adventure and wonderful memories. Jim was a dedicated professional who retired from Falconbridge in 1992 after 37 years. His expertise led him to another passion: teaching at Cambrian College, where he shared his knowledge with students in the Civil Technology Program. An avid athlete, Jim brought a competitive spirit to everything he played, from fastball, hockey, and basketball, to bridge and euchre, or golfing, skiing, and curling—and in his later years, tennis. He was especially proud of his many years as a member of the Mills Township fastball team on Manitoulin Island. Jim’s happiest moments were spent with Merle, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends at Lake Wolsey on the Island during the summer and in Panama City Beach, Florida, in the winter, with many vacations abroad mixed in. Jim is survived by his wife, Merle; their children, Rob (Heather), Sue (Todd), and Sherry (good friend Jerry); six grandchildren, Laura (Chris), Amanda (Alemayhu), Jimmy, Joey (Kayla), Ricky (Bobbie) and Drew (Steven); seven great-grandchildren, Cohen, Lilly, George, Clara, Daisy, Annie and Maggie; and his brothers, George (Dee) and Ron (Linda). He was predeceased by his daughter Debbie and his siblings Francis, Harold (Carol), and Patricia (Dave). Thank you to the staff at Maison McCulloch Hospice, Health Sciences North, Extendicare York Rehabilitation Program, St Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre (Lasalle), and the Acute and Reactivation Care Centre (ARCC) for our father’s exceptional care. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the spring, where family and friends will gather to honour a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Maison McCulloch Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to the Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home. www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com