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James (Jim) Gilbertson of Barriere, B.C., passed away peacefully on April 12, 2017, at Overlander Trinity Ward in Kamloops, B.C.

He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Liz, his son Robert (Sharon) Gilbertson of Mill Bay, B.C. and three step-sons Richard Ames of Grand Forks, B.C., Bruce Ames of Wabigoon, Ontario, Robert (Juliana Oja) Ames of Barriere, B.C., and daughter-in-law Trish Gilbertson of Kamloops, B.C.   He is also survived by 10 grand-children: Shonnie, Gordon (Jenn), Kim (Perry), Amber (Dave), Thomas, Steven (Lisa), Jamie, Keelly, Cadence, and Drydyn, and 12 great-grand-children.  Also his brother Fred of Etobicoke, Ontario.

Jim was predeceased by his first wife Ellen (1984), his son Gordon (2013), brother Jack, sister Doris, and brother-in-law Ed, and sister-in-laws Gerry and Beryl.

Jim was born in Bow Island, Alberta, on June 16, 1926, the first child born to George and Agnes Gilbertson.  He received his education in Pinkham, Saskatchewan.

Jim had a varied career.  He farmed in Alberta, constructed homes in Calgary and also drove city bus in that city, before coming to B.C. where he and Ellen and another couple ran the Sorrento Lodge.  Then he and Ellen moved to Kamloops where they ran a laundromat in the downtown area, Ab’s Grocery store on Tranquille Road, and a mobile home park on Westside Road.  Also, with a partner, he constructed homes in the Sahali area.  He drove a school bus for District #24 (now #73), then moved back to Sorrento and drove bus out of Chase until he became school groundsman until his retirement 25 years later.

Jim was very much a family man who enjoyed being with all his relatives and loved spending time with them.  His home was always open to all who wanted to stay or just wanted a cup of coffee and a chat.

Jim was very much a man of his word.  To him, your word and a handshake were a signed deal, and if he gave his word, you knew it would be honoured.

There will be no funeral, by request.

Should friends and family desire, a donation in Jim’s name to the Barriere Walk For Alzheimer’s would be very much appreciated.  To do this, please phone Liz at 250-672-9337 or email her at jamesgil@telus.net for more information on how.

Arrangements entrusted to Drake Cremation and Funeral Services, Barriere, B.C.



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