James Brown

With heavy hearts the family of James Brown announce his peaceful passing on the early morning of February 12, 2021 at his home with family by his side.  Jim was born on December 25, 1937, to Tom and Iris Brown in Motherwell, Scotland.  He spent his childhood there getting his education as a draughtsmen as well as discovering a love of golf that would last a life time.

In 1959 he was conscripted into National Service with The Kings Own Scottish Borderers and served in Rank as Lance Corporal for 2 years about which he was deeply proud.

He met his beloved wife of 60 years, Helen Rose Hepburn at the dancing in Motherwell and on June 2, 1962 they were married.  After starting their life together in Scotland they attended Expo 1967 in Montreal.  They decided to immigrate to Canada and settled in St. Catharines, Ontario.  It was there that they welcomed their first daughter, Catherine Veronica in 1968.  Seven years later they welcomed their second daughter, Nora Elizabeth in 1975 and the family settled in Niagara-on-the-Lake.  When Helen saw the orchard view she said she was never leaving.  When Jimmie saw the golf course he quite agreed.

Jim began his life long career as a respected mechanical engineer at Provincial Crane in Niagara Falls.  Of note was his contribution to the retractable roof for the Diamondbacks Stadium in Arizona.

The NOTL Golf Course was a special place to him.  He served as respected Games Captain for 5 years, was the 1984 “Almost” Club Champion, and was honoured with The Legends Trophy.  Jim enjoyed art and jazz, regularly visiting galleries and clubs with his family in Toronto.  And recently he enjoyed supporting the Jazz Festivals held in Niagara.  Jim had a strong faith and was a dedicated and active member of Grace United Church.

His charismatic nature, clever wit, loving, kind, and generous spirit drew people to him.  He was a mentor, guide, and a good friend to all.

Jim was deeply proud of and had a great love for his four grandchildren.  He relished going on adventures with them and applauding their accomplishments.

The family wishes to offer a special thank you to Mike Freel who was a dear and treasured friend in recent years.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife Helen; his daughters Cathie (Derek) Pennington and Nora (Derek) Vedress; and his grandchildren Isobel, J.D., Grace, and Luke.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Tom and Iris Brown; and his in-laws, James and Catherine Hepburn.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Memory of Jim can be made to Grace United Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

 

 

• Date : 2021-02-12
• Location : Ontario