Tribute

Peterson, James Leonard

June 20, 1934 – November 13, 2024

Jim passed away peacefully, surrounded and comforted by his loving family. He will be forever missed and deeply loved by Carol, his wife of 68 years, as well as daughters Janet and Kelly (Tony), grandchildren Kurt (Scarlett), Carli, Kelsey (Riley), Katie and Bree (Devon), great grandchildren Eliza, Stella, Conrad, Dean, Marlena, Lukas, Owen and Eleanor.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Hazel Peterson and brother George, and survived by brothers Garry and Lloyd.

Born in Parkside, Saskatchewan, Jim moved with his family at age eleven to Lake Cowichan and enjoyed his entire life there and in the Honeymoon Bay area. As a young teen, his first job was delivering meat for the local butcher on his bicycle. He pedalled hard and fast to get the job done so he could race off to whatever sport he was involved in at the time.

Jim’s incredible work ethic carried on throughout his life. With dedication, skill, and a passion for building, Jim became a successful building contractor leaving his mark on many buildings in Lake Cowichan, the Cowichan Valley and beyond. He was fortunate to have an excellent core crew throughout his career. And he was most appreciative of all the administrative work done by Carol – they were a team.

Blessed with speed, Jim was a great athlete. He was involved in and excelled at many sports, always giving 100%. Track and Field, fastball and hockey came first. Hockey continued while golf, skiing and even curling (at Carol’s insistence) were added next. He received many awards, including winning a BC pole vaulting championship. Later in his life, Jim felt honoured to be inducted into the sports wall of fame at the Lake Cowichan Sports Arena for ‘Hockey and Promoter in the Sport of Golf’. They spoke about how he was admired and respected by teammates and opponents, and that he was a fan favourite.

Jim was key in the creation, and follow-up improvements of March Meadows Golf Course (1970), providing a beautiful recreation opportunity for the community. He was also instrumental in building the Lake Cowichan arena (1970), providing his time and expertise and working with a wonderful group of volunteers. He played with the Lakers intermediate “A” hockey team in this arena and enjoyed coaching minor hockey for years.

Fishing was a great love, especially at the ‘Nitinat’. Here, as with skiing and golf, Jim had many adventures with family and longtime friends, making for very entertaining stories.

A wonderful man who led a full and remarkable life, Jim was humble in his successes and a pillar of strength for his family. To his grandchildren he was their beloved, adored and admired Gramps and he felt the same about them. He loved watching and playing with his great grandchildren who were a cherished source of laughter and fun. Jim/Dad/Gramps, we are all so very grateful for your presence in our lives and the memories that we will cherish forever.

A sincere thank you to the staff at Chemainus Health Care Centre for their skill and compassion as they cared for Jim and gave guidance to his family.

A celebration of life will be held at Cowichan Golf and Country Club, Duncan BC on December 1, 2024 from 1 – 4pm.