Obituary of James Bjorn Collins

It is with great sadness that the family announce the peaceful passing of Jim on March 20, 2024 at the age of 94.

Dad was born to James Wyper and Anna Kristin on August 9, 1929 in Riverton, Manitoba. He was the middle child of three. When dad was ten, his father passed away.

Dad married the love of his life, Gloria, in Riverton in 1953. Together they raised five children Susan, Cathy, Ron, Bonny, and Bruce. They made a life together in Winnipeg and they celebrated their 70th anniversary last June. Family life was full of sports, camping, travel, and adventure. It was a wonderful time! Mom and dad explored the world with trips to Egypt, Ireland, and Australia, to name a few.

Dad studied and apprenticed to be an electrician and he enjoyed a long career as an electrical contractor mainly with Kummen Shipman, eventually becoming president of the company. He started JBC Electrical Consulting and worked with Madsen Electric. He loved his job and he worked into his 70’s.

As dad got older, he found time to take up the game of golf. He played until the age of 92. He certainly enjoyed a very special group of men at the Southwood golf course and he spoke so fondly of their friendship, breakfasts and fun. Mom and dad had a great group of golf friends and they enjoyed Friday dinners and other events.

Dad cherished each and every one of his grandchildren and he was quick to hug, to laugh, and to tell each one he loved them. He was delighted with his great grandchildren!

Dad was predeceased by his parents, his siblings, Hugh and Joan and their spouses. He lost his sweet daughter, Susan in 2017.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his beloved wife almost 71 years Gloria; his children Cathy (Rob), Ron (Colleen), Bonny (Brian), Bruce (Jennifer); son-in-law Brian; his grandchildren Joshua, Jackie (Devon), Katie (Len), Rachael (Scott), Shawne (Oumar), Eric, Sean, Alex, Nick and Colina (Dan); and his great grandchildren Jake, Grace, Walker, Sloane and Ada. Dad enjoyed a great group of nieces and nephews who always treated him so well.

Special thanks to the staff at the Misericordia and Riverview Health Centres for their care and compassion. A big hug to dad’s wonderful neighbours who shared their garden produce, baking, and most of all, their friendship.

Even in dad’s last weeks, he recalled so many wonderful memories of a life well lived. So in love with mom till the end, he waited for his sweetie to visit and give him a big kiss and a cuddle! 

He will be missed.

In keeping with dad’s wishes, cremation has taken place and his family will celebrate his life with a family dinner.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity close to your heart.