JAMES DANIEL HARRISON

Condolences & Memories (11 entries)

• My condolences Wendie. I just stumbled upon this tribute to Jim. I remember my few years playing with Jim with great fondness. Though our lives took different directions, we would occasionally cross paths and it was always a high light for me. Jim will live on in my memory as a shining light. Rest in peace, my friend. Don Bouchat - Posted by: DONALD BOUCHAT (Friend and fellow musician) on: Jun 19, 2025

• I can't think of a more beautiful tribute to Coach than the list of posts on here... one of his compadres at Miles Mac for MANY years...the master of the game of handball....Eddie Gilroy (love you Mr. Gilroy!!) and one of, if not, his hugest nemeses.... Jim Schreyer, coach at Selkirk High School for so many years. 'We' battled with Selkirk (and MB) constantly. Coach instilled in us a "its us against them" hate them mentality. Thanks for what you instilled in us Coach...I think we all wish we could have spent more time with you once we became adults..RIP - Posted by: Chris Honke (A loyal soldier) on: Mar 29, 2025

• Wendie, I was unable to attend Jim's Celebration of Life, as we were still away vacationing in Tucson, AZ. As you are aware, Jim and I were gym partners for 15 years at MMC. He was a 5 star physical education teacher and coach, In fact, he was one of the most successful coaches in the history of the MHSAA and was inducted their Hall of Fame for his achievements. I am very aware that you and Jim experienced a long and very close marriage. I was in touch with you at the onset of Jim's illness and want you to know that you were the heroine in this extremely difficult situation. Ed Gilroy - Posted by: Ed Gilroy (Friend/Colleague) on: Mar 23, 2025

• Jim was an icon coach at the high school volleyball boys game. He made us all better coaches trying to keep up with him each year. A very talented and aggressive coach who was also a great musician we all found out later! He touched many peoples lives and made volleyball a lot better in K.C.A.C. Sport and the province with the MHSAA. Rest in peace Jim. My condolences to you Wendy! - Posted by: Jim Schreyer (Fellow coach) on: Mar 23, 2025

• Wendie, I was unable to attend the celebration of Jim's life last Sunday, as we were still vacationing in Tucson, Arizona. As you know, I spent 15 years as Jim's "gym" partner at MMC, and along with different female staff, developed what I considered was one of the better all - around physical education programs in the province, which included the core program, intramurals, and all around inter - school athletic program. Jim certainly had an enormous and positive influence on so many students over his many long years there and was certainly one of the most successful coaches in the history of the MHSAA, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. - Posted by: Ed Gilroy (Colleague/Friend) on: Mar 20, 2025

• Words cannot express my feelings for Jim. I lost my dad when I was 12 and male role models were important to me. None was greater than Jim. He gave me so much of his time and wisdom. While I was on his volleyball teams, he encouraged me to write my poetry and play music which I do badly to this day. We named our son James Daniel. Wendie, he talked about you and loved you so much. I’m so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: DJ Hinds (Student/friend) on: Mar 19, 2025

• Dick and Jim played in the band the Rhythmaires in the 60s and Jim spent many times at Dick's place in Tyndall. We often think of him and have many fond memories of those days. Our deepest sympathies to his family. Judy and Dick McKay - Posted by: Judy and Dick McKay (Friend) on: Mar 19, 2025

• Mr. Harrison was quite a remarkable man!!! Not only was he a great teacher and coach, but he could play a variety of instruments, and he had a great singing voice. I had the privilege of having Mr. Harrison as my basketball coach when we won the Manitoba Provincial Championship in 1971 and 1972. It was quite something to win the Provincial Championship two years in a row! I know that he also went on to coach many Manitoba Provincial Volleyball Championship Teams after "retiring" from coaching basketball. I was fortunate to be able to keep in touch with Mr. and Mrs. Harrison down through the years since 1972 and he sometimes told me to call him "James", but he was always Mr. Harrison to me.....as I had a great deal of respect, as well as fondness for Mr. Harrison. It was also wonderful that Mrs. Harrison attended many of our basketball games, and we were "her kids", as well as being Mr. Harrison's players. On my second last visit with Mr. Harrison at Deer Lodge, I brought my 1970, 1971 and 1972 Miles Mac Yearbooks and although Mr. Harrison's dementia was already fairly advanced, it was wonderful to see his eyes light up as we walked down memory lane together. He remembered many of his players and had comments to make on many of them. On my last visit Mr. Harrison did not wake up, but I held his hand and told him how much I appreciated all of the countless hours he spent coaching me during my high school years. Many thanks Coach Harrison!!! - Posted by: Ken Hayes (One of Mr. Harrison's basketball players - MMC Class of 1972) on: Mar 15, 2025

• He was my coach and to be honest probably the most influential teacher/mentor of my high school life. I was shocked at his passing. I feel a true loss. - Posted by: James Conley (Volleyball Player) on: Mar 15, 2025

• Sending condolences and prayers from the entire Kostick family. We were so lucky to have Wendie and James as our neighbours at Tannis Lake. Can still picture James doing his evening ski and then the Wendie/James wine cruise after that in their little skiff. Great people. Great times. Great memories. 🙏❤️ - Posted by: Gord Kostick (Lake Friend) on: Mar 15, 2025

• Wendie, I was deeply saddened to hear about Jim's passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I have fond memories of the gatherings we shared with family and friends. Jim's impact on so many athletes during his tenure as a coach was truly remarkable. He inspired and guided countless individuals, leaving a lasting legacy. My thoughts are with you and your family. May you find comfort in the cherished memories and the love that surrounds you. - Posted by: Cam Moskal (Family friend) on: Mar 15, 2025