Forever in our hearts and minds.  Jim, you will always be with us.

Osoyoos, 1975

So many loving memories of Jim ❤️
He is always by my side.




Jim, Cathy, Ken, Grandma and Grandpa Hignell, Osoyoos, 1975

Summer at the lake!

I have only just learned of Jim's passing today and didn't believe his colleague when he told me. I cannot express in words what a wonderfully kind,  caring, amiable and warm person Jim was to work with. My team and I were really looking forward to hopefully seeing him today and when we found out he has passed due to COVID our hearts broke.  Sincerest condolences to Jim's family and friends. We will miss his total awesomeness, his smile, his laughter and the photos he  so lovingly shared of his family (including four legged furry family). He has parted from us all way too soon. 

I am thankful to have had Jim as a friend. His kindness and thoughtful nature, combined with his sense of humour and positivity made him a joy to work with.  I can honestly say I have learned so much from him, and I know he would have laughed if he had heard me say that!  He truly was a humanitarian, and I am lucky to have known him. 

Jim, my brother and best friend.  We have been together, sharing our lives, loving and supporting each other for 56 years.  Jim you were always there for me, a constant, reassuring loving presence in my life.  I am so grateful to have you as my brother.  Thank you for being my friend, my ally, and supporter.  Thank you for your love and kindness and wisdom and laughter.  Thank you for inspiring me to live with joy and adventure.  Thank you for your comforting words and counsel and for your cheers of celebration.  Thank you for your jokes, your laughter, your friendly competition, and your caring help and guidance.   The bond that we share is so strong, it will never be broken.  Being your older brother has shaped my life, is a part of my identity and is a foundation for who I am today.   I am heartbroken that you have left us far, far too soon and I miss you so much.  I love you Jim, and you will be in my mind and my heart for the rest of my days.  You will always be by my side.  

I was blessed to have Jim in my life.  Growing up together and only one year apart, Jim was my constant friend and companion sharing the joys, sorrows and adventures of our lives.  Even as a little boy, Jim filled our lives with happiness and laughter.  He inspired us with his positivity and humour and he strengthened us with his unconditional love and support.  Jim lived his life with joy and sense of adventure. 

We are so proud of all he accomplished and of the man that he became.  Jim lived a very special life dedicated to the love of his family and to the service of his community and country.  A life very well lived, and loved by so many.

For Jim, being a husband and father and grandfather and his love for Patty, Connor, Chantal, Veronica, Jason and Natalie were his greatest joys and his most precious accomplishments.  For him, family was everything, and loving and caring for his loved ones was Jim’s central purpose.  This love of family, is my strongest memory of my brother.   

I so remember the first time we met Jim. Connor and Chantal had just announced their engagement and we needed to meet you both. You came for dinner and Jims infectious smile, his love of family and joy for life was so evident. We knew Chantal was joining a loving and wonderful family. We shared family holiday meals together with you both and Jim will be so dearly missed. You both were here at Easter and Jims joy with helping our little Ronnie gather her chocolate eggs is a lasting memory for both of us.
Much Love
Michie and Andy 

Sending you deepest condolences at hearing of Jim’s passing.

Jim brought so much knowledge to the IIO and was an instantly likeable,  warm and happy guy.  He is gone way, way too soon and I am deeply sorry for your loss.


Patty asked me to share a funny story about you Jim because you would have liked that. I have to agree, but it’s very difficult to do when I am still so devastated by your loss. I know you would want everyone to get together for a chat, have a few drinks, celebrate your life, and support Patty and your family to get through this.  You’d want to be remembered for the amazing person you were and the legacy you have left behind.  So, I will try to honor this as best I can.
Your last texts to me were ‘love you sis…great beaches’, and when I said, ‘Hi brother, hang in there, you have a grandson to meet in September’, you replied ‘Yes can’t wait love the pics’.  You had so much to live for and we all know how hard you fought right up until the end.
It has been a real struggle to write this because somehow it seems so final, and I am not ready to say good-bye. Only one year older, you were my big middle brother who was always there, even if we lived half-way around the world from each other.  I could always count on you for a good chat and loved hearing about what was happening in your world.  You were so proud of your family.  They meant everything to you, and you meant everything to them.  
I loved visiting you and family and seeing the incredible husband, father, and human being you had become.  The last time I visited was the happiest I’d ever seen you.  You were totally at peace with who you were and your life.  You were much loved, and I think you were very content. Your life was an absolute success in every area, and I was so proud to be your sister.
As kids, you were the favourite child (or at least I thought so).  You would get away with everything and could talk your way out of anything.  I remember if I ever wanted something, I’d get you to ask because you usually got a yes.  You were more than happy to help, so long as you got a share of whatever it was 😊.  You were always so fun to be around as a kid.  You were an absolute legend Jim and will be forever! 

Jim was my boss but quickly became my friend. He made me laugh every day and I loved hearing his stories of fishing with Patty, new dog adventures, rugby with his boys, weddings, being a Grandpa, etc. It was clear to anyone who knew him that he loved his family so deeply and was incredibly proud of his boys. My heart breaks for his family...he will be remembered.

No words to express the depth of our grief or magnitude of losing our beloved Jim.  Our hearts ache with you and for you.   Jim’s huge personality filled our lives, our homes and our shared experiences. He’s been another father to our daughters, a caring and loyal friend, an amazing grandpa.  It’s been our honour to raise our families together and become one family united by our shared children. We love you, will always be here for anything you need and will honour Jim in every way possible. Our hearts are truly broken💔 We will love and miss you forever Jimmy. Tamara and Antonio Alves (parents and in-laws to Natalie and Jason). 

Jim,
I can’t begin to tell you how strange it is going into our desk space, looking next to me and not seeing that smiling face of yours, or being able to enjoy your great sense of humour.  Oh I see you in my mind, struggling with the computer, but unfortunately you’re just not there. The incredible love you have for your family always came out in the stories you told me, and the way your face beamed with pride. I miss your thought provoking and well articulated comments about life and work. You are without a doubt, a very wise man! Oh and by the way, I still owe you a coffee. When the time comes, I expect you to collect….

Patty and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather, roles that Jim was so obviously proud of based on the things he said and the way he lit up when he talked about all of you. I only knew Jim for a year and a half in our forensic positions at the IIO, but I am so grateful to have had that time. He left a lasting impression! No matter where I go around the province I come into contact with fellow Forensic Identification folks who worked with Jim, knew him, or had simply heard of him. What is always evident to me is not only the profound impact he had on those who were lucky enough to know him or work with him, but also on our discipline. He certainly left his mark in this life, and will be truly missed. 

My sincerest condolences.

Rest In Peace Jim…..

Dwayne Raymond

I had the privilege of meeting James in 1989 as troopmates in Depot.  I was shocked to hear the sad news of his passing but continue to have great memories.  He always had a smile and a positive word to say.  He was a great man and will be dearly missed.

Rest in Peace!

Joel Godard
Republic of Korea


Dear Patty and all the family- some of whom we met and others we didn’t have the joy to know. Kim & I and all the family we spoke with are deeply saddened to know we won’t be seeing our dear Jim anymore because a virus took him from us. I have fond memories of childhood days being a close cousin when we were living near Uncle George and Auntie Ann and me being 10 years old when he was born was so exciting! I was a flower girl in their wedding party too, and very proud in my plum taffeta dress. I remember Jim was a sweet boy who loved people and was always smiling with an inner happiness that he most surely lived with his family as the years flew by! Jim gave back to the community in many ways that will be remembered fondly. Indeed we were so lucky to visit with you at Uncle George’s birthday bash on Salt Spring and meeting your lovely family! I know peace is coming and all the memories will surround you with gratitude and love and tons of hope! I would love to be with you again one day if fate allows! Sending hugs and tons of love to all of you as you move forward step by step together! Kim and Christine Kelln and all the family💖

Dear Jim
I’m sure the last thing you needed at 15 was another geeky younger sister thrown into your life, but you stepped up to the roll of big brother just the same. My fondest memories are the time we spent together in our in-between years – weird summer jobs, late night study sessions, literally one-year car tires under the Christmas tree!, family trips to the cottage in that old truck, and motorcycle rides to Kits beach on hot summer days. We pretty much mastered the “don’t tell mom and dad look.” You helped me learn to drive, how to ride a motorcycle, you were my taxi service when I got into trouble, and you taught me how to drink beer. You brought joy and laughter into the house and made the transition from a family of 3 to crazy big family a little easier for your weird little sister. I hurt most for your family -- too sudden and too soon. Please give Dad a hug for me – he’s going to be surprized as heck to see you.
With love
Danna


I will miss Jim's quick smile and that laugh. His gentle soul and the love he has for his family and the assorted critters has made such an impact on me.  He is free now, at peace and likely throwing a ball for Sammy.    He will be watching over his loved ones, just as he always has.

Ah Jim!  You, me Patty were supposed to ride this summer!  Regrets…
Ah Jim you, me Patty raising those great  kids, Jason and Connor!  Such great kids!  And the dogs (damn cat).
Ah Jim- taken too soon… 

Dear Patty, Connor, Chantal and Ronnie, Jason and Natalie, and family.

Living next to the Hignells for 16 years was wonderful. The best neighbours one could ever have. I’m so glad Chris was able to enjoy such a great friendship with Jim. I can still hear them talking and laughing over beers and hanging over trucks making repairs. I can’t believe they are now both gone, too suddenly and too soon.

Just before we moved, Jim took the time to go to Timmy’s with AJ and told him he was so proud of how much he’d grown since the loss of his dad. This meant the world to AJ.

It’s so hard to think that Jim is no longer walking this earth. We are so very sorry for your loss of this special man.

Much love,
Ivy and AJ

Along with many family, friends and co-workers, I was shocked to hear of Jim's passing. He left his mark on this earth with his devotion to family and career. Jim and I worked a very traumatic homicide scene in Burnaby while he was in his Understudy period. I knew from the onset that I was with an intelligent, thoughtful and hard working member and a future specialist in Forensics. He didn't disappoint and will be missed by all but the bad guys.

It is with profound sadness that I offer Patty and Jim’s family my sincere condolences. 
I was privileged to work with Jim on many occasions and enjoy his calm, collected manner of approaching scene work. He was always pleasant, personable and positive. We had fun working together on the 16x9 production for Global National. He had a way about him of conveying such a genuine and upbeat attitude toward work and life in general. 
Jim will be remembered fondly. 

Thoughts and prayer with family.  Jim was appreciated by his many friends and acquaintances, he will be missed.

I worked with Jim at the IIO. He fitted in well due to his professionalism and understated manner. I liked his keen sense of humour and his penchant for candies and enjoyed a few coffee chats with him prior to my retirement and return to Australia. 
My condolences to your family and Jim’s friends. 

Jim and I first met on the Forensic Ident Course in Ottawa in 1999 where I remember Jim’s infectious smile and laugh when taking our class photos under water. We worked numerous cases together over the years and he was my boss at Ridge Meadows before he retired. I miss the days we limped in the office on Monday mornings after being weekend warriors and hearing Jim’s rugby stories. I now sit in his office that is filled with great memories of the big guy.  I had great respect for Jim as a colleague, supervisor and friend. 
Patty, Connor, Jason and family, our sincere condolences from my family and I and we are so sorry for your loss of a great man. He was so proud of you all. 

Rest in Peace Jim


I was shocked and saddened to hear of Jim's passing.
Over the years we crossed paths at Ident workshops, courses and various functions. We spent time working together on the Pickton investigation and at the Vancouver Bloodstain Section. A few years ago we bumped into each other and briefly talked.  He was looking forward to his pending retirement from the RCMP. Jim was always jovial and had an infectious smile. 
Veronica and I send our condolences to Patty, Jason, Connor and to all of Jim's extended family. Take comfort in knowing that he touched many lives and made a difference.
He will be missed but not forgotten.


Much love to Jim's family (and ever-present pup). 
Jim’s calming voice and easygoing demeanour was a gift to the IIO. At autopsies, police detachments at 3am, and scenes in the pouring rain Jim's presence made cold, dark situations a bit warmer and lighter. 
At a course in April Jim spoke fondly about his family, taught us how to do an oil change, and shared adventures riding a motorcycle through the Kootenays. There were supposed to be more adventures.
He is deeply missed by all.
Stephanie Sim

Dear Jim, thank you for all your guidance and support along the way.  From early on in my career my passion for photography grew and you were always so encouraging.  I followed you from Coquitlam FIS to Surrey and then to Maple Ridge.  You were a great supervisor and we always had so much in common with our love of family, sports, camping and good friends.   Jim I wish your family all the best during these trying times.  I captured this photo last week in Golden Ears Provincial Park.  I had thought of you often that weekend so I dedicate this image to you and your family Jim.  Farewell my friend.

I have so many favourite memories of Jim, also known as my "Dad #2".  He became a second father to me when I moved from Ontario to BC to start my career in IFIS.  When he became the S/Sgt. in Ridge Meadows Detachment, day 1 went like this ...

0700hrs - "Hey kiddo!  Wanna go for coffee?"
1200hrs - "I could go for another coffee?"
1400hrs - "I am in need of another coffee!"

Timmies was Jim's favourite, and the odd time when he got a donut or cookie I would promise not to tell Patty :)  Jim brought our unit together every day with his warm smile,  infectious laugh, and caring nature.  He supported me from the beginning in my career goal of becoming a Forensic Anthropologist.  He was the person I confided in when I missed my family back in Ontario.   My family was lucky enough to have met him too. The day I introduced my dad to Jim it was one of the most cherished  memories of mine.  That was quickly followed by my dad introducing Jim to numerous rusty nail drinks.  Sorry Patty!  

We ran Tough Mudder in 2014 together with the rest of our FIS section, and Jim was a trooper.  Our team name was "Jimmy's Swamp Donkeys" and we wore it proudly on our t-shirts. He lost his hat in the first obstacle, but that didn't stop him.  Jim ran 16 kms that day and that beer never tasted so good at the end. 

When Jim told us he was retiring from the RCMP, and that he had less than a week left with us I thought he was joking.  My heart ached knowing my Timmies buddy would be leaving.  When I heard of his passing it broke my heart.  My deepest condolences go out to Patty, Conner, Jason, Natalie, Chantelle, his beautiful grandchild, and his entire family.  I was lucky enough to have had Jim in my life, and he will forever be remembered, loved, and missed.  Forever in my heart Dad #2.

Kiddo

What do you say? Jim was funny , gregarious! laughed and joked a lot, but when it was time to get to work, you could count on Jim. He talked fondly about hunting and fishing, spending time with his kids and family, He had great stories about his RCMP career and all the people he got to know along the way. I had great respect for Jim. He had a wealth of knowledge that i had yet to tap. I will miss you Jim. To his Family, my deepest condolences to you and may you find some peace in the coming years. thank you for sharing Jim with us!

John Elley 

My condolences to the Hignell family.  I met Jim at the Forensic Lab and worked on files with him while he was with NFISS.   This is such sad news.  Sorry for your loss.

Dear Jim's Family & Friends, 
I was one of Jim's colleagues at the IIO and it was a delightful experience, if much too short. Jim was a valued member of our group, experienced and professional, able to rapidly transfer his wealth of knowledge from a long career with the RCMP to benefit the public at our agency, a true public servant. Jim was compassionate, he cared about people, building relationships quickly, known for his twinkle & witty humor, and everyone wanted to work with him. I will never forget his kindness & he will always be one of my Force brothers in spirit. My deepest condolences to his beloved wife and family in this time of great, tragic loss. 
Respectfully,
Sara Spearman 

Jim, I won’t forget you and the lasting impact you had on my career.

You were my boss for upwards of 10 years, until your retirement.  You were the first person I turned to for advice and guidance, and you were always willing to give your support.  You were there from the beginning of the RCMP’s Forensic Video Analysis Unit in 2012/13 and your years of experience and perspective steered our fledgling team.  I greatly appreciated how your years in BPA allowed you to identify with us as a small, highly specialized “team within a team” trying to find their place in the organization.  You always went to bat for us.  And even though we worked in different offices geographically for the last bunch of years, I always looked forward to being invited into your office “for tea”, as you put it!

I’m also thankful that I had the opportunity to tell you all of this on the occasion of your retirement, which – by the way – you both announced and had already had your last day all within the span of some vacation leave I happened to be on then!  Came back to work to find myself “Jim-less” and without a boss!  Good times.

I’ve got a copy of your feature on the forensics episode of that “16:9” show to remind me.  I was sure proud of my boss for that and showed you off to family and new employees that joined us after it aired!

My condolences to your family, whom you so often talked about.  There’s no words that can suffice, but I hope the ones from all those that have shared them here at least give them some sense of the lasting impact you had on so many, including myself.  I’m grateful for that.

Rest easy.

Jim was a good friend and will be truly missed. Jim always met you with a smile and a kind word.  We’re so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you. 

I worked with Jim for a short period of time in the Coquitlam Ident office before he got promoted to S/Sgt.    He had been transferred out of the Bloodstain section to take the Ident Sgt role in Coquitlam.  There is no question that Jim had an infectious smile and pleasant demeanor.  There was no negativity with Jim and was supportive when I decided to take a bloodstain position in Halifax.  The last time I spoke to Jim he told me that he had testified in court twice as many times as I have even though I have been in the section a lot longer.  Only we know what kind of stress is involved with this type of court testimony.  Somehow he was able to not only just cope, but was an excellent respected member of the RCMP family.  I have no words to express how sad I feel that Jim has passed.

My sincere condolences go out to Jim’s family.

Adrian Butler

Dear Patty & family            
We’re sending you our most heartfelt condolences. We hope that your happy memories of Jim and family will guide you through this time of loss. Patty, all your Mission nursing friends have you in their prayers. We love you so much. Take care. We hope to see you soon.  Love, Loïs Warren & Phil Burns 

James and I were troop mates and graduated Depot together in 1990.  I don’t spend too much time on social media  but a thoughtful troop mate emailed me the sad news today. 
My immediate response was as follows;
Hey Sean, 
Thanks for letting me know, I really appreciate it. It is so sad to hear! When I read your message, the first thing that came to mind was an image of Higgy standing with his hands on his hips, chin tilted slightly upward, a smile on his face and saying something encouraging. That is how I will remember him. 
Thanks again, 
Take care and stay in touch!
Pat.
Thanks for again for sharing Sean. My deepest condolences to the family!
Sincerely Pat Campbell


I was broken hearted when I heard of Jim’s death. Jim and I worked together at RFISS and conducted several investigations together. Most importantly, I found Jim to be a kind, caring and supportive person.  He was a wonderful friend, always ready with a smile and a good word for everyone.

My sincere condolences to the family, I will miss him.

Jim Gallant 

I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Jim’s family during this most difficult time.  

I had the pleasure of having Jim as an indirect supervisor from the beginning of my career in Ident. Jim helped me through a challenging time in my life and I will always remember him for his warmth and compassion during that time. From the first time I met Jim he always spoke of his family. He was a very proud father and his love for his family was always in the forefront of meaningful conversation. An animated warm and loving man. I know I am not alone in the feeling of disbelief that Jim has passed. A testament to such a bright light, it’s very difficult to imagine a place without him.

Forever, you will be missed Jim.

It was so sad to hear of Jim's passing.  Many of my colleagues and I at the IIO were shocked because Jim was always such a vibrant, positive, steadfast force within our office. He brought expertise, wisdom and an abundance of kindness and patience. I feel we were so lucky to work with him, albeit for a brief time when compared to his impressive career in the RCMP.

Jim has left a void in our office. Please know our thoughts are with you, his family and other friends. We will remember him fondly.

My heart sank when I saw the notice in the RCMP mates page. Through training James was always upbeat and a source of inspiration during trying times. 

Our condolences to Patty and family. James, may you Rest In Peace, the ride has come to an end. 

James was a great guy, but I am writing something that we all know.  He always had a big smile and a kind word.  Everyone liked him and he liked everyone.  Over the years I met up with James (Higgy) at weddings and other Troop 21 events.  He never changed.  He remained that fun loving person with the big heart.  

It is heartbreaking that he left us so soon.  He will be fondly remembered by family, friends and troopmates.  When I think of James, he always made me smile. Today is a bit different.  I have bit of a smile, but mostly a tear in my eye.
 
Higgy, we will miss you very much.  Rest in peace my friend. 
Ross Gear


My memories of Jim will always involve an entertaining visit and a piece of pie at the Chilliwack Airport. His smile and laugh were what made him so fun. He was always open to providing a teaching moment with a good story.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences to Jim's family and friends. 

My sincere condolences go out to Jim’s family. 

While we never worked in the same office, I did get to know and enjoy his friendly cheerful personality on various forensic identification courses and meetings. I always looked forward to the next time we would get to meet. 

He will be missed. 


I got to know Jim through various RCMP forensic identification training courses.  Whenever I saw Jim’s name on the list of attendees I knew it would be a fun and interesting course.  I enjoyed hearing about the adventures of his rugby-playing son especially when he went to England which is where I grew up.  

Jim was quick to smile, offer encouragement and support his colleagues.  I personally experienced this when I gave expert testimony in a New Westminster courthouse and Jim listened from the public gallery.  I have a lovely memory of his encouraging smile and the kind words that he shared with me when the ordeal was over.

It is with great sadness that I offer my condolences and I hope that our collective memories of Jim will bring his family and friends some peace and comfort.

I remember when I first met Jim at a Florescence Course in the early 2000’s.  We all had to mix some chemicals to produce a specific compound that would fluoresce blood.  There were about five compounds we were mixing in five different groups.  After class Jim stayed behind because he wanted to try the formulas that he didn’t get a chance to mix.  He was that fascinated that he stayed late.   He was enthralled with Forensics and it inspired me and those who knew him.  
Jim was incredibly honest and a very caring individual.  I have known few people who cared as much for those who worked for him as Jim did.  He listened, really listened to his members and cared about how they progressed.  He was truly a great person.  My condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed.

Jim was the Staff when I first started in ident. 

I remember feeling worried and overwhelmed, and Jim just smiling at me and telling me to have confidence in myself. His own self confidence and cheerful nature just inspired and cheered up everyone he knew, me included. He made me feel better about a major career shift, halfway through my service... and made it seem a little less daunting.

He would often regale us with tales of his days playing rugby, his camping stories, and pass on little nuggets of wisdom for his years in the force. But more importantly than that, he *really* listened to you, no matter the age difference or gap in years of service. He always made you feel valued and important; that was just who he was.

I think most importantly, Jim knew the importance of family. Even though he was a hard worker, we all saw how important his family was to him. And it reminded us all that at the end of the day, it was just a job, a way of providing for the family. They were what was important.

I’ll miss him, truly.

James was a troop mate and I have fond memories of his happy cheerful demeanor during training.  I enjoyed  each time we would meet and catch up at troop mates weddings over the years.   Condolences to his family, he will be missed.

Derek Bloxham

I have known Jim since his ident time in Burnaby. He later became my sergeant after leaving the bloodstain section, and my staff sergeant once I transferred to Surrey. I have so many fond memories of Jim. The kind that make me smile and sometimes laugh even though years have gone by. I used to call him " ident dad". As a supervisor,  he taught me a lot and he always had my back. When I became a specialist,  he gave me a pair of his old corporal shoulder badges. I still have them and I still wear them. He was so proud of his boys and kept us updated with all their achievements, from school successes, graduation, football games, rugby games ( including all the injuries), the trips to England, the engagements, weddings and births. His family meant everything to him. Jim made a difference for so many people in so many different ways. He was truly a remarkable and unforgettable man. 

We are so sad to hear of the passing of James, I used to stand proudly beside him in ranks in Regina during our training (we were both a little vertically challenged).
An amazing man with a big smile and would do anything for anyone......all of our thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
The Loucks Family

Jim was a highly regarded and respected member of the Forensics Team at the IIO and the effects of his passing are already being felt here by his fellow team members. 

Jim was a collaborator and a wonderful team member who understood the meaning of the word "team."  He was always smiling and never hesitated to jump in to help the team. He was always available, even on short notice, to travel and manage work while juggling multiple priorities. His work here will not soon be forgotten.

Jim was a remarkable man and I was humbled by his kindness and compassion to everyone around him. I was fortunate to have known Jim.

Jim will be greatly missed and everyone at the IIO is saddened by his death. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends during this difficult time.

To James family. I graduated with Higgy in 1990 and have many fond memories of him. Higgy as we knew him was a kind, sincere and genuine “brother.”  He treated everyone with kindness and was always willing to lend a hand when needed. He was never one to shirk responsibility. Higgy was one of the good guys and I was blessed to know him. A glass raised in your honour and memory my friend. 

So sad to hear of Jim's untimely passing. I knew him in the Ident. field and worked with him many times on numerous scenes. He was a good man, always gave his best and was a team player. Sending sincere condolences to his family. Thank you Jim for your service and your friendship.  

First and foremost, my sincerest condolenses go out to Jim's entire. I am shocked to hear of his recent passing. 
Although we have not kept in close contact since graduating from Depot in June of 1990,  James or Higgy to all of us, he was a  brother and will always remain so.
He was just a good guy who simply got along with everyone. His "pit" was directly across from mine so graciously tolerated my snoring and stinky feet. Thanks Higgy
On behalf of his troop mates of Troop 21, rest easy my friend. You are now 10-7,  off shift.  We love you. 
Gary O'Brien 

I met Jim on my very first day of service, many years ago in Swan Hills, Alberta.  Right from the start, Jim was welcoming, friendly and great to work with.  We bumped into each other many times over the years and I was always amazed how Jim never lost his positive attitude and jovial nature.  He will be greatly missed.

My sincerest condolences to Jim's family.

I was lucky enough to share some training courses and meetings with Jim over the years.  When I would see that he was listed as one of the attending members for any of these RCMP events I knew that when we would meet there would be his hearty greeting handshake along with a big smile.

My fondest memory of Jim was during a weekend break between a two week long course in Ottawa when a few of us decided to go to  an aerial park near Hull, Quebec.  Before heading there none of us knew that Jim was afraid of heights of which he only revealed when we were ascending to the first obstacle.   Needless to say Jim persevered to complete the aerial course along with the rest of us and even at the end choose to do the zip line back!  The memory of his laughter that day will always be cherished.

My condolences to Jim's family, may your memories too be of his smiles and laughter that he was so willing to share.

So very sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. I knew Jim throughout most of my career. He was a mentor for me. I worked with him on several occasions while he with the IIO.  I am sure his loss will be felt by many. 





Although only working alongside Jim on a couple of occasions, his work ethic coupled with his easy-going demeanour will always remain with me.

My sincere condolences to the Hignell family.

I was blessed to have worked with Jim.  He was a wonderful person who had a great sense of humour and I truly enjoyed working with him.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. 

It is with a heavy heart that I send the Hignell family my condolences on your loss. You were all so lucky to have had such a wonderful Husband, Father, and new Grandfather. 

Jim was a huge part of the RCMP Forensic Family for so many years, and I'll never forget his infectious laugh, his zest for life, and his larger than life personality. While there, he made our office in Maple Ridge a fun and easy going work environment, with coffee in the morning being the most important part of the day. And who were we to argue with Jim on that?

He will be sorely missed by all that knew him.  

I have worked with Jim for many years now, but remember the first day I met him.  I was received with a big smile and a hearty handshake and an offer of assistance whenever I needed it.  Jim was kind and compassionate, and dedicated to both his work and his colleagues.   I will remember Jim fondly.

My sincere condolences to Jim's loving family and friends.

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing.  Jim and I worked together over the years and most recently here at the IIOBC.    May you find strength in this time of great need through the knowledge that Jim was a wonderful and compassionate man.  I will miss you Jim...see you on the other side.

Warmest personal regards to the entire Hignell family...

Phil Easton

Jim was with us at the IIO for too short a time. He pleasant demeanor and funny stories will sorely be missed. He seemed to really enjoy his work, and we enjoyed having him with us. 

Please know that he was well liked and thought of by all of us, and we know that our loss is so small compared to yours. 

Jim made the workplace around him better for those he had contact with, and it is hard to do any better than that. 

May you have treasured memories and smile when thinking of them. 

All the best. 

Ron MacDonald



OBITUARY

James Lindsey Hignell

24 April, 1965 – 21 May, 2021

Woodlawn Funeral Home

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