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JAMES (JIMMY) ROBERT HILL
Born: Nov 21, 1963
Date of Passing: Oct 02, 2014
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJAMES (JIMMY) ROBERT HILL In keeping with Jim's wishes, a private family Service will be held. A Celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 from 4:00 8:00 p.m. in the Holiday Inn West, 2520 Portage Avenue. Wojcik's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204-897-4665, is in care of arrangements. wojciksfuneralchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 11, 2014
JAMES (JIMMY) ROBERT HILL Suddenly on Thursday, October 2, 2014, surrounded by his family, Jim passed away at the Grace Hospital at the age of 50 years. He was born on November 21, 1963. Left to cherish Jim's memories are his loving wife Kathy, of 24 years (nee St. James); beautiful boys, Dean (Kaitlyn) and Drew; wonderful parents, Harvey and Shirley; his "beaut" of a brother, Tom (Rhonda); and his "brother" from another mother, Martin Owens. He also leaves to mourn his immediate family; mother-in-law, Del St. James, Janet and Dave Wiess, Tim and Natalie St. James; nephews and nieces, Matt (Tannis), Chloe (Chris), Tyler and Lily; Auntie Lois Owens; cousins Kevin and Diane (Kerry). Jim was predeceased by his father-in-law, Gus St. James; grandparents Robert and Beatrice Hill, Austin and Doris Baily. Jim went by many names, Jimmy and Harv to name a few. Also left behind are the numerous friends Jim had made over the years, he loved every one of you, and when he spoke of you, he would always say "he or she is such a beaut!" Jim made friends wherever he went, he was just that type of person. Our house was always full of the boys and their friends, Jim loved this! Whenever they came over they made a point of seeking him out, share a few words. Over the last few days, many of them have reminisced about the way they could talk to Jim about things they couldn't talk about to anyone else, he'd offer advice when needed, or just listen. He always thought of you all like his own. Jim was born and lived in Winnipeg his whole life. Growing up he played hockey, baseball, football and whatever else he could. Jim played the drums for many years and still played occasionally. He would play for hours in the basement of the house he grew up in on Aldine Street. His favs were Led Zep, The Doors, The Who to name just a few, as he had so many! Jim attended Bannatyne Elementary, Golden Gate Junior High, where he made lifelong friends. He graduated from Silver Heights Collegiate in 1981. This is where Jim and Kathy met and dated, but did not become an "item" until 1984. They married on September 15, 1990 and had their beautiful sons Dean (1994) and Drew (1995). Jim's life from then on was all about his family. They were his world. He'd tell us all the time, "You can't even begin to know how much I love you guys!" We know! He taught his sons life lessons, so many to list, to carry them onward through their lives. The family spent many summers camping at Big Whiteshell, Tulabi Falls, and various other places. But Jim's favourite place in the world was Bag Bay on Shoal Lake, ON. We spent many summers there. He taught the boys to fish, swim, and water ski there. He always said "could he stay there forever?" You will be getting your wish, my love. Jim started working at CP Rail after high school. He started working on the gangs in 1984, then moved into the yards on Jarvis Avenue and worked as a switchman for many years, then as a conductor on the road, becoming an engineer in May 2009. Jim loved being an engineer, when he first started he was like a big kid, excited, happy doing what he always wanted to do. Over the last few years, we started to travel, Las Vegas, Mexico with the boys, and most recently Cuba this past February with our family and friends for his belated 50th. Jim will always be remembered as someone you could talk to, count on anytime, he would give you the shirt off his back. So many people have told us how much they appreciate how he opened up his home and heart to them, that's Jim! In keeping with Jim's wishes, a private family Service will be held. A Celebration of his Life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Holiday Inn West, 2520 Portage Avenue. We would like to thank everyone for stopping by with food, flowers, their phone calls, texts, emails and for their company. The outpouring of support for us has been truly amazing and we are so thankful to you all. The family also wishes to thank the W.F.P.S. and the staff of the Grace Hospital for all they did. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, or something that was close to Jim's heart, J.D.R.F. Wojcik's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204-897-4665, is in care of arrangements. wojciksfuneralchapel.com The Piper's calling you to join him, Dear Jimmy, can you hear the wind blow, and did you know your stairway lies on the whispering wind? Jim, we know we were your everything! You were ours too! Rest easy, my love!
Publish Date: Oct 7, 2014
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 11, 2014
Condolences & Memories (18 entries)
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Kathy, Dean and Drew...I just heard about Jim, and although late, express our deepest condolences for your loss. Jim was a great guy - I remember fondly many chats at the hockey rinks and trips. God bless. - Posted by: Marian, Keith, Alex, Matthew and Tyllar Henry (Hockey Friends) on: Oct 21, 2015
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Harvey and Shirley: Please accept our most caring thoughts in the loss of your son. May peace and God's blessing be with all your family at this most difficult time. - Posted by: Al and Pat Pearsehouse (CP Rail) on: Oct 14, 2014
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Such incredible testimonials to the kind of person Jim was. I know you will treasure those memories and carry on his legacy. Blessings to you and your sons. Keep smiling Kathy... You are one of the most positive people I know. - Posted by: Jim Head (co-worker of Kathy's) on: Oct 11, 2014
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Over the last few days, Jim has brought a flood of memories of growing up on Aldine, the back lane, "across Ness”, Jim and Paul, pretending to be rock stars in Jim’s basement, and building tree forts. Jim loved to climb trees, particularly the one in his back yard; Jim and Paul would climb as high as possible - I was terrified of heights, but Jim would invariably encourage me to just give it a try. Even as kids, he wanted to make sure everyone was included. The last time I saw Jim, both of us had gone to the Big A - we were in our mid-twenties and had not seen much of each other since high school. Over some (many) beers, he said: “I always looked out for my little buddy, Grant. Always looked out for him”. As a kid, that had never occurred to me; as an adult looking back, it was perfectly obvious that he was. I wish I was able to attend the celebration of his life today, my apologies for not being there. - Posted by: Grant Kerr (friend) on: Oct 10, 2014
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What a beautiful tribute Kathy....felt like I had actually met Jim. Sorry I never did and hugs to u snd your family. I am unable to attend the celebration but I will be with you in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: June Woodrow (friend) on: Oct 10, 2014
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My heartfelt sympathies to Kathy, Dean and Drew. Jim you always had a smile and listening ear. We shared many rites of passage, your wedding, birth of your boys. Gone too soon. We, the AEL ladies, will take care of Kathy. Will miss you, dear Jim. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Pam Rose (Friend) on: Oct 10, 2014
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It is impossible to come up with words to express my shock and dismay at Harv's sudden passing. While I hadn't seen him since we celebrated his 40th birthday - freezing our beers off at the original Heritage Hockey Classic - he was always close to mind. We'd known each other since our early teens and were both amazed how time had flown when we hit 50. Regrettably, I assumed he'd hit many, many more and we'd have many more adventures ahead of us. (Sorry Kath. No regrets, right?) And to my dear Katherine: You know how I feel and more importantly, you know how Jim felt. (I still find it implausible to refer to him in the past tense). You two were a match made in heaven and I guess he's just arrived there early for you. To Dean & Drew: Your Dad was one of a kind and I look forward to the time when I can tell you all the stories which are unfit for print. Be thankful for one thing tho - When we were young, he maintained he was gonna have a child and name him Anton ... He thought it'd be cool to have a kid named Anton Hill So Jimmy - my little drummer boy - get in your '68 Beaumont and drive safely on your journey. You will be missed but never forgotten. Your laugh will continue to resonate in my head for the rest of my life. Peace out lil brother ... - Posted by: Bobby Gunn (BFF) on: Oct 09, 2014
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I only met Jimmy and the Hills this year when I was living Winnipeg and I must say, Kathy and Jimmy became family to me like the Beaudrys did. I was new to all these people who've known each other for years, and they still went out of there way to help me when needed and take care of me, making sure I'm alright. And whenever you seen Jimmy, he'd have the biggest, most happiest smile on his face! And Kathy you nailed it, no matter what, Jim was always open ears for all us kids and gave the best advice. Then there's the love he had for his family... 25 years of marriage and still when you seen the two of them, was like they fell in love with one another all over again, the love he had for his kids was like no other. He'd always talk about it. While living in Winnipeg, whether it was the Beaudrys back yard or the Hills... Jim was life of the party, or at the bar. He was just that type of person, everyone loved him as soon as they met him. Not a mean bone in his body. My apologies I can't attend the service Kathy or be there for you all at this time. I feel like a jerk for moving... But know my thoughts and prayers are always with you and Jimmy will always be in all our hearts!!! Rest in Paradise Jimmy! - Posted by: Melissa (Family friend ) on: Oct 08, 2014
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Sometimes life is not fair. Losing our pal/friend Jim is one of those times. Our deepest condolences to Kathy, Dean and Drew. Our boys grew up together, went to school and hung out. Jim and I shared many a hockey/fishing/boating/cottage story. He was quite the character. And how he loved to laugh! We have a lot of great memories of Jim. Two come to mind: the day he was water skiing at our cottage. What a pro! And only a few weeks ago he was dancing and having a heck of great time at the Big A, rockin' to Whole Lotta Angus. We'll never forget those good times at the old Sturgeon Creek club.....Jim being his usual life of the party. As for Kathy: you know the Hockey Moms will be there for you. When I think of Jim, I'll remember just how precious life/friends/fun is. We miss you, big fella. Gone, but never forgotten. The Smiley Family. - Posted by: Brian Smiley (Family friend) on: Oct 08, 2014
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It's one hundred percent true what you said kath, "they could talk to Jim about things they couldn't talk about to anyone else, he'd offer advice when needed, or just listen." As one of Dean and Drew's friends, Jim made me feel as welcome as family. As much as I love my parents there's just certain things you don't talk to them about. Jim would always be there to listen with open-arms and a judgment-free ear. We lost a great man the other day, but his advice, jokes, and stories will never leave us. RIP Jimmy effin Page. - Posted by: Brendan Armitt (Friend) on: Oct 08, 2014
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Kathy, Dean, Drew and extended family Please accept our most sincerest of condolences. The beautiful tribute of Jim's life that you have shared is a true testament of your love & devotion for Jim. May you find peace and comfort in the days to come. Blessings to you all, Sherra, Tom Papaioannou & family - Posted by: The Papaioannou's (Tom, Sherra, Karleigh & Nicholas) (friends) on: Oct 08, 2014
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Jim always had a smile for you my sympathy to all his family and friends - Posted by: brett perrault (friend/coworker) on: Oct 07, 2014
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Oh Kathy. What a beautiful tribute. Our tears and laughter go with Jim to the Heaven above. Gosh I remember dancing with Jim so many times at Silver Heights Community Club. What a blast. Lots of good times at hockey parties and special events. His smile was always there. Oh my. To you and Dean and Drew and your extended family - from the bottom of our hearts - we send you all our condolences. - Posted by: Rick, Wendy, Ryley and Shelby Hurlin (Friends) on: Oct 07, 2014
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My name is Cheyenne and my family is neighbours to the Hills. I considered not sharing in the guest book thinking it didn’t matter what I wrote. With further thought I came back to this page with the illogical idea that maybe, somehow, Jim would see this. "The Hills" are closer than family friends, they are family. We moved to the area over a decade ago and the first neighbours we met were the Hills. My brother was enrolled in hockey and my mom remembers being at the outdoor rink on a cold, windy, Winnipeg day and Jim walking over to welcome and greet them to the area and team. That gives you the idea of the kind of man and friend Jim was. Jim would go out of his way for anyone that needed a hand or even a friendly "hello and welcome". My brother and Jim's son played hockey together for the next handful of years and our families grew closer. The boys became best friends and the parents did as well. Jim worked hard and set the best example for his boys, he was the epitome of a great man. My dad and Jim became the best of friends, “partners in crime”. Imagining Martin without his buddy could break my heart alone. I couldn’t even begin to count the number of memories our families shared; they really did live out the best years of their lives. I often would ask Jim how he met Kathy and he would go on to tell me how he "swept her off her feet" and 24 years into their marriage it was still visible. They would get lost into song and dance with each other like they just fell in love, like no one else was around. To this day I still consider their love for each other my aspiration. In hard times like these, it is tough to understand why a family so deserving of happiness would have this fate. But I choose to believe Jim will always be here, in the songs we hear, at the BBQ's we will have, the Jets game we watch, and during the garage dance parties to come. I know you’re sitting on a boat somewhere, with Pepper by your side, floating in a blissful heaven. To say you will be missed is an understatement and you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace Jimmy. - Posted by: Cheyenne Beaudry (Close family friend) on: Oct 07, 2014
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Aaaaaaaah Jim.... You left us too soon. There will always forever be a void in all of our hearts and lives. The Hills lived across the street from us growing up. Our parents, bless their hearts, have been friends for 50+ years. My brother Paul, and Jim, were best of buds all through their lives. Being younger, and a girl, they would always try to ditch me at play time. But I tried my best to keep up. Consequently I was a bit of a tom boy growing up. I climbed trees with them, played with Jim's sparkly new Tonka truck, JI Joe, and lego's. As my brother's illness got the better of him, Jim and Kathy were one of the few people who never gave up on him. I thank you for that. And hey Jim, like I told ya the last time I saw ya, I'll never forget them frogs you and Paul put in my sleeping bag at our cottage in Victoria Beach. Hardy har har!! I still owe ya. Till then... And too my 'soul sista' Kathy, I love you hunny bunny, and will always be there for you. My sincerest condolences to you and yours. You are in my wishes and prayers. All of you. 'LaLa' - Posted by: Laura Menard (Bannerman) (My second 'bro') on: Oct 07, 2014
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I've known Harv since Elementary School some 40 odd years. Our kids then played hockey together. He was a genuine person and a true friend. He will be forever missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Kathy and Dean and Drew RIP Harv - Posted by: Ron Letourneau (Friend) on: Oct 07, 2014
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What a beautiful and moving tribute, Kathy. It shows how much Jim was loved, and how much he will be missed. - Posted by: Paula Herriot (friend) on: Oct 07, 2014
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My fondest memory of Jim is a party at the Wakeman's dancing to Van Halen singing our asses off and Jim looks at me between air guitar riff's and says Tiff why don't you have someone? I'm gonna find you someone.... LOL. - Posted by: Tiffany Dunn (Friend) on: Oct 07, 2014

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