JAMES ROBERT BIRD

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JAMES ROBERT BIRD April 2, 1921 - December 17, 2014 Peacefully on December 17, 2014, at Deer Lodge Centre, Jim passed away with his family by his side. Our Dad was predeceased by our Mom, Dorothy, in February 1993; his parents, George and Florence Bird, and siblings Winnifred, Constance, Jean, and George, and son-in-law Clark. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, June (Jim), Joyce (Lyle), George (Janet), and Brenda; and as Gramps to eleven grandchildren Marla, Andrea (Kevin), Laura, Curtis (Ashleigh), TJ (Lauren), Jennifer (Jerad), Jeanie (Charlie), Missie (Dylan), Sam, Kailey, and Ted; and six great-grandchildren Aidan, McKenzie, Marcus, Harper, Dara, and Samuel. As peaceful as his passing was, it's doubtful he ever surrendered, because he fully embraced life, and his spirit will live on forever. He loved to travel to attend important events in his children and grandchildren's lives, and did so up until early January 2014. He was nick-named the "Jet-Setter" and he would then smile and say "yes, but an economy Jet-Setter". Jim lived all his life in Winnipeg (Elmwood and East Kildonan) where he met the love of his life, Dorothy Goodchild. They were married December 13, 1941 after he had joined the RCAF, where he took great pride in his role as an aircraft mechanic. After the War ended, he went to a trade school and started a painting and decorating business with his brother-in-law, Joe. He then spent many years working at Canada Malting until his retirement. Jim was a perfectionist, and things had to be done the right way, thus earning him the title "Technical Tim". Dad was a kind, caring, generous man who believed in honesty and hard work. His word was binding and his love had no boundaries. He always had a twinkle in his eyes when he smiled, and was affectionately referred to as "Gramps" by our family of friends. Our family Eagle will be forever flying, watching over us all. He was a great story-teller and we will miss him dearly, but are thankful for so many memories. Thanks for the company, Dad. Love you, miss you. The family would like to thank long time neighbours, Donna and Roy, for their help and support, as well as the dedicated staff at Deer Lodge Centre, Veterans Wing for their compassionate care. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Deer Lodge Centre Foundation, 2109 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3J 0L3, or to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 20, 2014