James Milne MacKay

Jim and his wife met as teenagers and were married in 1961, beginning a partnership that would span more than sixty years. Together they raised three children and later enjoyed a close and meaningful relationship with their seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Jim took great interest in their lives and loved staying connected to what each of them was doing.

Born in Montreal, Jim was raised in Langley, British Columbia, before eventually spending much of his life in the BC Interior, calling Kamloops and Williams Lake home. Seven years before retirement, he and his wife moved to Campbell River, where Jim fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning a sailboat and spending his days fishing and enjoying life on the water.

Jim had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether hunting, fishing, or boating, he found peace and joy in nature—especially on the ocean. His early years included service in the Navy as a ship’s diver, a role that reflected his lifelong connection to the sea. After his military service, Jim returned to school to earn his electronics certificate at BCIT, which led to a long and dedicated career with BC Tel (now Telus), where he worked for 30 years.

In recent years, Jim faced many challenges as his health declined. Those who loved him find comfort in knowing that he is now free, at rest, and in a better place—now free from the challenges he faced in his later years.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal service. The family will gather privately at a later date to remember him.

Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the waters he loved, and the many memories that will be held close forever.