JAMES STIRLING

James Stirling passed away peacefully at the age of 87, with family by his side, on October 27, 2026.

James (Jim) Stirling was born on December 13, 1938, in Renfrew, Scotland. The youngest of nine children, he developed a strong attachment to his Scottish roots that would remain with him throughout his life.

In 1957, at 18, he was called up for military service and, encouraged by an older brother who pointed out the extra pay, volunteered for the paratroopers. He joined the British Army's 1st Parachute Battalion, serving three years that included time in Cyprus and training jumps in Norway and Denmark. He remembered those years fondly, considering them among the best of his life.

Back in Scotland, Jim caught the eye of Margaret Leitch, and they married in 1962. Three years later, with their first son in tow, they emigrated to Canada, following his older sister, who had arrived as a war bride after the Second World War.

They initially settled in Elkhorn, Manitoba, a considerable change from metropolitan Glasgow. In 1969, with three young boys, they moved to Brandon when Jim found employment at Simplot. The arrival of twins in 1972 completed their family of five sons, providing plenty of opportunities for his patience and humour to be tested.

Over his 30 years at Simplot, Jim worked first as an operator before retraining as a welder in his early forties. Honest and hardworking, he took pride in doing a job properly. As a union shop steward, he fiercely advocated for workers and never hesitated to challenge something he considered unfair. He could be feisty and outspoken, occasionally amusing friends and family, although those on the receiving end might not have found it quite so entertaining. He also possessed a good sense of humour, often delivered with distinctly Scottish dryness.

As a father, he was always willing to put his practical skills to work helping his sons with projects around their homes. As a grandfather, he developed a particular soft spot for his granddaughters, who held a special place in his heart.

Sports were lifelong interests. An avid cyclist in his youth, he enjoyed riding around Scotland and continued cycling in Canada into his seventies. He played soccer for Brandon's Spartans Soccer Club and enthusiastically followed the World Cup in his final year. Golf was another passion, providing countless enjoyable days and lasting friendships. He continued playing until the last few years of his life.

Following retirement in 1999, Jim and Margaret enjoyed an around-the-world adventure that included Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and the UK. They also occasionally escaped Canadian winters in Mexico and enjoyed visiting family in Scotland or hosting them here in Canada.

His adventurous spirit never faded. At 83, while vacationing with family in Puerto Vallarta, he tried parasailing, bringing back fond memories of his paratrooper days. Although initially hesitant, he thoroughly enjoyed the experience, complaining only that five minutes in the air was far too short and that he would have preferred to go higher. He had also shared his enthusiasm for parachuting with two of his sons, taking them skydiving at Brandon Airport in 1996.

Jim remained immensely proud of his Scottish heritage, enjoying its traditional food, drink, and customs. His accent softened over the decades but never disappeared entirely. Although he never forgot his roots, Canada was unquestionably his home.

Margaret's passing in 2020, after 58 years of marriage, was a difficult loss. Fortunately, the friendships he had built through work, soccer, golf, and everyday life provided much-appreciated companionship and support. He especially enjoyed meeting his longtime coffee buddies at the food court or a restaurant to exchange stories, share a laugh, and occasionally set the world straight.

A man of strong principles, loyal friendships, and deep family ties, Jim could be stubborn, occasionally cantankerous, and seldom reluctant to express an opinion. But beneath that feisty Scottish exterior was a generous and caring man who could always be counted on when it mattered.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret, sons Ron and Steve, and his parents and siblings. He will be lovingly remembered by his sons Brian (Paula), Ian, and Andy (Trista); granddaughters Holly, Leah, Keirra, McKenzie, and Abigail; grandson Logan; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and longtime friends.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends are encouraged to make a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.

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