** SERVICES UPDATED
JAMES: Passed away, suddenly, at his residence on Friday, December 3, 2021, Dean Archie James of Exeter, formerly of Zurich, Grand Bend and Aylmer, age 69. Beloved husband and caregiver of Jillian “Jill” Mary (Batten) James recently of London. Forever loved son of Audrey (Buck) James of St. Thomas and the late Stanley Robert James (2013). Loved father and father-in-law of Dereck and Carrie James of Kingsville and Brent James of Saskatoon. Loved step-father and step-father-in-law of Karen and Len Hall of Hamilton, Joanna Chardola of Blue Mountains and Chris and Christine Roe of Somerset, England. Cherished grandpa of Samantha Hall, Hanna Hall, Nathan James and Olivia James. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Cheryl James and Jim Edmonds of Grand Bend, Roger James of Alymer and Sally Moore of Worthing, England. Remembered by his nieces, nephews and their families. At Dean’s request, cremation has taken place. A public visitation will be held at the T. Harry Hoffman & Sons Funeral Home, Dashwood, on Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 1 to 2 p.m. followed by a Private Family Service. The Rev. Jim Innes Officiant. Dean had a few loves in his life, he cherished his family, he loved buying and selling Ford Mustangs and all sports, especially the NFL. He retired from a long time career working as a Corrections Officer and worked on the family Tobacco Farm in the Aylmer area. If desired, memorial donations (payable directly) to the Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
Guest Photos
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Chris Roe
We will be thinking of you all today and hope the service goes well.
We will raise a glass later in memory of Dean who had such a positive impact on my life that I’ll never forget!
We spent many happy times together during our visits to Canada. I was humbled by his warmth, generosity and support. He was a top man!
Chris & Christine
Don Quick
I had the privilege of knowing Deano for over 30 years. He was an advisor, coworker, mentor, and above all else – a friend.
Deano was a compassionate listener who cared for those around him. Many a time he’d listen to people and give fatherly advice or bits of wisdom.
Deano was smart. You would have to wake up pretty early in the morning to fool him! Thank you buddy for all your warmth, kindness and advice over the years! My enduring memory of you is seeing you sing to”Maggie May” at a Rod Stewart concert.
Sue Riley
My son was fortunate enough to work with Dean who went out of his way to help my son during a medical issue. I wish I could have thanked him in person. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Melanie
My condolences to all Dean’s family and friends. I knew him briefly but during that time he was incredibly kind, friendly and generous. He never lacked conversation and I truly admired him for that. Be at peace Dean ♥️
Carol Mathers and Norma Walker
Sending sincere sympathies from Carole Mathers and Norma Walker (also parishioners from St John’s in Grand Bend). We so enjoyed our lunches after church with Dean and Jillian at Paul’s in Dashwood. We also visited their lovely home in Exeter and eating at the Thai restaurant – they were were regulars there. Dean was a valued member of St John’s – always pitching in. We will dearly miss Dean and Jillian, a wonderful couple.
Justin Stortz
Dean was one of those rare people who could brighten the day of everyone he encountered, I am very grateful for having known him. My most sincere condolences to his family.
Ken Graves
Ken and Brenda Graves. Growing up in Calton I have known the James Family my whole life. Dean will certainly be missed as many of us went through12 years of school with him. So many fond memories as we look back fondly. We offer our sincere condolences to both families as well as the many friends they have at this most difficult time. Ken and Brenda Graves
Les Graves
He was one of Calton’s finest
Les Graves
Wilma (Kennedy) Tichenoff
So sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. I have known the James family all my life as I grew up in the same community of Calton. I have memories of going to Sunday School with Dean even though I was older but he was the same age as my sister and cousin.
As kids we always went to the James farm to get our Christmas tree. To Dean’s family may all your cherished memories you have tucked away in your heart give you comfort during this difficult time. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you. Love and Hugs!
Sincere Regards! Wilma
Pam Saris and Ray Stephens
Our front porch conversations of family, farming, football and Mustangs will be greatly missed. In the short time we were acquainted to you, you made our world a better place. Our condolences go out to your family friends!
Pam Saris and Ray Stephens
Elaine Ducharme
Our sincere condolences to the entire family. Dean will be missed.
George & Elaine Ducharme
Lynne Verriet
Dean and Jillian were great neighbours here on Devon Drive. Those of us that got to know them remember Deans passion for his mustangs and his total dedication to Jillian. They will be greatly missed and we send our sincere condolences to his family. Lynne & Bert Verriet