James Saundry Henderson FCA Jim passed away peacefully in his sleep after a battle with Parkinson’s on June 22, 2021 at the age of 74.
He is survived by his loving wife Liz of 52 years; daughters Keri (Glen) and Pam (Greg); grandchildren Jaeden (Rachel), Galen (Dylan), Abi and Evan; sister Nancy (Jim); sister-in-law Barb; brothers-in-law Lawrence (Julie), Don (Diane), Dave (Leslie), Bill (Carol), Ernie; aunts Margaret, Doris and Darlene; a large extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his parents Jock and Joan, in-laws Clarence and May, sister-in-law Judy and brother-in-law Brian.
Jim was born in Stonewall, Manitoba and raised on the family farm at Argyle. Although he was born with a deformed left hand it did not prevent him from being active in drama, singing, public speaking and many sports. He excelled as a baseball pitcher.
Being a country boy he enrolled in the faculty of agriculture at the U of M and was senior stick his final year. He soon realized, however, that he was more interested in his business electives and went on to do an MBA at UBC and article for his CA in Calgary. His biggest passion was post-secondary education and he worked as Director of Education at Institute of CA’s in both Alberta and Manitoba before changing careers to college administration at both Keyano and Grant McEwan and then becoming president of Grande Prairie Regional College.
Jim was very involved in the community with various service clubs, committees and volunteer work. He was awarded an FCA in both Manitoba and Alberta for his dedication to his community and his profession.
He also continued to be active in sports playing his last floor hockey game on his 60th birthday and golfing until Parkinson’s prevented it. After that diagnosis he took up stick curling and boxing which he really enjoyed.
His artistic side came to the fore when he took up oil painting after he retired. The walls are full of his paintings and many family members and friends are proud owners of his work.
Jim’s family was the most important thing in his life. He and Liz lived in many different places and enjoyed most of them. They loved to go on golfing and wine buying trips to BC. In 2018 they celebrated their 50th anniversary with a big party. He was so proud of his daughters and his grandchildren and loved it when the grandsons had a running feud as to who was number 1. We will miss him terribly but know that he is at peace now.
There will be no funeral at this time but we hope to celebrate his life later in the year. Jim loved Scotch and ice cream so please indulge in one or both of them and think of him.
The family would like to thank the staff in the 1400 wing at Extendicare Eaux Claire for the wonderful care he received there.
If friends and family so desire donations in his name can be made to Parkinson’s Alberta at the Buchanan Centre, 11209 86 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T5B 3H7.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
(780) 458-2222
