Patrick James “Jim” Primeau
Posted Mar 23, 2026 | 12:01 PM
Patrick James “Jim” Primeau
September 19, 1967 – March 18, 2026
It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Jim. There are no words to fully express the sorrow and emptiness we feel. After 287 days of courageously fighting for his life, Jim passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Jim was born in Prince Albert, the youngest of six children. After the passing of our mother in 1969, his four sisters helped raise him, forming a bond that remained incredibly strong throughout his life. Right to the very end, Jim shared a deep and special connection with each of his sisters. As a child, Jim was gentle and kind-hearted, known for his sweet nature and his love of chocolate milk more than candy. On one occasion, after wandering away from home, a neighbour who had never met him recognized immediately that he must be a Primeau—something in him made it unmistakable. That was Jim. In 1973, Jim moved with our dad to Lily Plain to live with Marj, where he attended East Central and Wesmore schools. He loved life on the farm. As a young boy, he spent his days riding dirt bikes through the countryside with his stepbrother Mike, building forts in the bush, and heading over to the Neudorf home to spend time with Lorne and Gary.
After leaving home, Jim worked alongside our dad and brother Tom in stuccoing and parging. Wanting to be his own boss, he later took up painting—a trade that ran in our family. He worked closely with his sisters, Peggy and Sandra, painting homes and businesses throughout the city and surrounding area. About eight years ago, Jim began working with his sister, painting at the Twilite Motel, which led to maintenance as well. It wasn’t just the work he enjoyed, but the calm and welcoming atmosphere. He often brought muffins for the staff and spent time visiting with them. He held great respect for the motel owners, Sam and Nala Ishmail, often saying, “It’s not like going to work,” because he truly loved being there. Jim also ventured into breeding bulldogs as a side hustle, but his big heart made it difficult for him to part with the puppies. Before long, he had a lively pack of nine. Anyone who visited Jim knew to expect an enthusiastic welcome at the door, followed by the comforting sight of his dogs gathered around his feet. His beloved dog Bertha was often by his side, even accompanying him to work, never straying far.
Jim leaves behind his two sons, Teagan of Prince Albert and Hugh of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; his sisters, Peggy Epp, Barb (Albert) Prince, Heather Primeau, and Sandra Fiddler (Les Diakiw), Carol (Gordy) Mathers; his longtime partner, Elsie Robillard; his stepmother, Marjorie Williams; and his stepbrother, Mike (Angie) Cheney. He is also lovingly remembered by his aunts Lynn (Doug) Bindon and Cecile Henry, as well as 117 nieces and nephews, countless cousins, and many dear friends, including Russell Sinclair, Darrin Fiddler, Denny Sjogren, Lorne Neudorf, Don Fisky, Violet Richards, and Parker Ross.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Pat and Mary (Henry) Primeau; his sister Patricia; his brothers Tom and Elliot; his brothers-in-law Ken Epp, Kent Kreller, and Ron Fiddler; his grandparents, Sadie and Joe Primeau, May Garson, and Stan and Augustine Henry; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and medical team on Level 5 at Victoria Hospital for their compassion and exceptional care of Jim. Each and every day, they went above and beyond to ensure his needs were met. We also wish to thank Charity and Darrin for the many trips made to Saskatoon to visit Jim; Holly Kaytor for the countless hours spent at Jim’s side; Tracy Henry for stepping in when we were too exhausted; Dave Rondeau for lifting Jim’s spirits with your stories, adventures, and the meaningful Métis gifts you shared; and Dave Cathcart for your visits and the special RR gift you made for Jim. Jim put up with a lot having his sisters at the hospital so often, so any time he had a male visitor, it truly brought him happiness. A very special thank you as well to two incredible women who supported us throughout this journey with Jim—Tracy Judd and Tina Paskiw.
Jim will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his kindness, and the love he gave so freely. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, quiet strength, and deep connection to those he cared about. He fought a long and brave battle. Now, it is time for him to rest.
The funeral will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 at the Eastend Hall, which is located on 2nd Street and 10th Ave East in Prince Albert. Lunch will be served following the service.
The family would like to extend sincere thanks to the staff at Martens Warman Funeral Home for their kindness and dignity in caring for Jim.
- Date : 2026-03-18
- Location : Prince Albert, SK