JAMES RYAN NYLEN

James passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, at the age of 50, surrounded by the people he loved.

Born on March 5, 1976, James spent almost his entire life on the family farm near Erickson, Manitoba. In 1988, he moved with his mum and sister to Oakbank, where he attended school until Grade 11, when he moved back to the farm. After completing high school in Erickson, he attended RRCC, where he studied carpentry. He worked in the carpentry field for a number of years, but when he started his family, he changed careers and began farming alongside his dad. To James, the worst day farming was still better than his best day working in carpentry.

Farming wasn’t simply his occupation — it was a way of life and something he was deeply passionate about. A cattle farmer for most of his life, James was beginning the transition into grain farming and was excited for the next chapter on the land he called home. He took great pride in his farm, his work, and the community that had always been home.

James had many passions beyond farming. He loved curling and was a tremendous supporter of junior curling, always willing to lend his time and help where it was needed. He loved spending time at his cabin at Barrier Ford, watching football — especially his beloved Minnesota Vikings — listening to music, especially Slipknot and Metallica, watching anime, and playing cards. Some of his favourite times were the late nights spent around the table with Sarah and the kids, playing cards, laughing, and simply enjoying being together. He loved Gibsons, good times with family and friends, and was always willing to lend a hand and help his community.

James was stubborn in the way only James could be, sarcastic enough to keep everyone laughing, and kind to a fault. He had a way of helping people without expecting anything in return and was someone others could count on. His humour, generosity, and unmistakable personality left an impression on everyone who knew him.

For the last six years, James and Sarah made a life together between Erickson and Warman, travelling back and forth to be together and making the distance inconsequential. Their love was something special. They loved hard, laughed hard, and made the most of their time together. Their relationship was, in many ways, something to aspire to — a true partnership built on love, laughter, family, and choosing each other every day.

Above all else, James loved his family. His children and grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and family was at the heart of his life.

After a two-year battle with cancer, James spent his final days at home, where he passed, surrounded by the people he loved in the place he wanted to be. He faced his illness with the same strength and determination he brought to everything in life.

James will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife, the love of his life, Sarah; his children, Jaime and her husband Mason, Trinity and her husband Nolan, and Chase and his partner Sarah; his stepchildren, Jasmyne and her husband Nick, Lena, Mac and Axel; his grandchildren, Braylee, JJ, Eleanor and Oliver, and the grandchild he was eagerly awaiting; his mother Janet; his stepmother, Benita; his sister, Tracy and her partner Jason; and his and Sarah’s extended family and many friends.

James was predeceased by his father, James Fredrick Nylen.

He will be remembered for his passion for farming, his love of family, his generosity toward others, his sarcastic sense of humour, and the many simple moments that made life special — whether at the farm, at the lake, around a card table late into the night, listening to his favourite music, or enjoying time with the people he loved.

James lived a life filled with hard work, big love, loud music, laughter, family, and memories that will last a lifetime. His presence will be deeply missed. The love he gave and the life he shared will continue through all of those who knew and loved him.

Service to be held at the Erickson Curling Club, October 3rd, 2026 at 2:00pm where all are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made by cheque to the Municipality of Clanwilliam Erickson; Curling Rink Ice Plant in memory of James Nylen. Donations can also be made via e-trasfer to acao@ericksonmb.ca

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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