James (Jim) Alfred Snell, born November 24th, 1919 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, passed away on Wednesday, August 17, at Shuswap Lake General Hospital.
Jim served in the Royal Canadian Air Force in Gander, ND., during World War II. Afterwards, he and his loving wife, Margaret, ran the trading post at Moose Lake in northern Manitoba before moving their family out to British Columbia where Jim ran service stations in both Cloverdale and Bridal Falls. Jim worked hard as both an auto and heavy duty mechanic for many years, and continued to fix the cars of family and friends in “Jim’s Garage” long after his “retirement.”
Jim was an avid fisherman, hunter, and collector of “stuff.” He also loved music and dancing the night away at family celebrations. One of his greatest pleasures was to be out tending to his vegetable and flower gardens which he did up to the night before he passed away. He gladly shared the abundant harvest of his garden with countless people over the years. His concern and generosity for both family and friends was appreciated by all. Thanks, Dad.
Jim was predeceased by son Robert, wife Margaret, grand-daughter Christine, sons-in-law Robert and David, and sister Doreen. He is survived by sisters Frances and Edna, and by his five children: Jim (Sandy), Joan, Patricia, Judith, and Tom (Eunice). He also leaves behind his much-adored fifteen grandchildren and fourteen great- grandchildren.
Thank you to the emergency staff at Shuwap Lake General and to Doctors Tran and Weicker. A special thank you to Fran Cooley, Jim’s friend and caregiver for the past 14 months, for her committed and hard-working efforts.
A celebration of Jim’s life was held at Gleneden Hall on Sunday, August 22, with interment at Mount Ida Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the local Salvation Army food bank.
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www.fischersfuneralservice.com.