Obituary of James MacBurnie

It is with great sadness the family announces his passing on Sunday May 16 in his 91 year. Jim is reunited with his loving wife, Shirley (nee Sloat) and will be dearly missed by his daughters Cathy Friesen (Mark), Susan Principi (Pat), and Jennifer MacKinnon (Craig). Grandsons Greg, Cameron, Brenden, Brayden, Sean and Ryan have many wonderful memories of their grandpa/papa. He leaves behind many brother and sister in laws, nieces, and nephews. A life long-time friend to Jerry (deceased) and Carol Draper, Bert VanDyk and Brenda and Randy Smith. Jim came to Ontario from Nova Scotia as a young teenager and settled in Brantford. He was an extremely hard worker who at times worked two jobs including Massey Ferguson, Thibodeau Finch Transport, before a long-time employment at Atlas Chemical (ICI Atkemix) as head shipper and receiver. In 1967 he met and married Shirley and they began their life together. He was devoted to his family, friends, and a true animal lover. He was always there to lend a hand by fixing your car, your lawn mower, or building a flowerpot or bench. He loved to camp, fish and was famous for his deep-fried fish and chip dinners. He loved to gather around the kitchen table playing pass the ace with his family and friends. He faced some serious medical conditions in recent years showing courage and with determination. Despite the pain, Jim came out a hero and stayed strong to the very end. Jim chose to be cremated with an interment and celebration of his life to take place at a later date. Funeral arrangements are entrusted with Beckett-Glaves Family Funeral Centre, 88 Brant Ave., Brantford, 519-752-4331. As we cannot be together at this time, an opportunity to share your memories have been made possible on the Beckett-Glaves website at www.beckettglaves.com Thank you to St. Joe’s Life Centre for their care in his final year. In his love for animals, we ask for donations to be made to you local SPCA in his memory. A tree will be planted in memory of Jim in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.