James Patrick McGettigan

The family of James “Jim” Patrick McGettigan announce his passing in White Rock, BC at the age of 86. Left to mourn are his beloved wife of 19 years, Marilyn Kenan McGettigan, his four children Daniel (Susan), Donal (Deidre), Margaret "Peggy" (Trevor), and Patricia "Patti" (Kurt), his eight wonderful grandchildren, Quinn, Erin, Gareth, Austin, Tyson, Gabi, Lachlann, and Piper, great granddaughter Avery and his brothers Cyril (Berdina) and Daniel (Gail), along with many nieces and nephews and extended family. Sadly, predeceased by mere hours by his younger brother, Hugh (Rosemary).

Jim was born and raised in St. John’s Newfoundland and the oldest of four boys, born to James Patrick McGettigan and Mary "Molly" (Doran) McGettigan.

Dad was initially destined (at least according to his mother) to be a priest and attended All Hollows College in Dublin, but a bout of sickness changed that path.

Dad then moved to Labrador City in the early 1960s where he met our mother, Helen Lucy Foley, and they married in 1965. Four children made for a busy household, but Dad always had time for building projects, both for himself and for family and friends. Many fun summers were had at the cabins he built in Tors Cove and Nine Island Pond, not to mention the traveling adventures all over Canada.

Dad became a teacher and taught at St. Bon’s and St. John Bosco in St. John’s. He had countless funny stories about teaching and being a vice principal. Dad then promoted to a long career at the Roman Catholic School Board of St. John’s as an administrator, where he planned, wrote and taught curriculum. His favourite times were the days he could get back into the classroom, especially doing fun science demonstrations for students.

Dad never stopped, whether it was playing hockey, playing guitar in numerous bands, doing some "light skiing" or swinging a hammer. He'd do anything for friends and family and didn't know how to say no to anyone. He loved a good snowstorm, when he could get out in his 4x4 and help hapless motorists who'd gotten stuck. Dad also loved music and played his own style of guitar. He taught many kids and adults to play over the years and inspired his children to pursue their love of singing and playing instruments. We still run into people who tell us "your Dad taught me how to play guitar". Dad continued to play guitar well into his 80s, and this brought him and his family great joy. A true Newfoundlander, Dad loved to entertain and cook up a big scoff, then play music and tell stories into the night.

He played hockey, baseball, soccer, and excelled at track and field. He was the only Dad in our neighbourhood who would play baseball knockouts with all the kids and play pond hockey at Kenny’s Pond every winter. All our friends loved him for that. He also coached hockey at St. Bon’s and St. Pius X, and was a Boy Scout leader with Dan and Donal for several years. He gave so much and expected nothing in return.

Dad moved to BC after retiring from teaching in the mid-1990s, or so we thought. After a couple of years of carpentry work, Dad was called back to education again, and was the vice principal of Khalsa School in Surrey from 1995 to 2008.

Dad met Marilyn in 2001 and they married in 2005, and he was quickly taken in by her wide circle of friends. They enjoyed travel, socializing, and spending time with family. Marilyn happily joined Dad in helping his friends and family with many home reno projects - whether it was painting, tiling or other jobs.

Dad tried to un-alive himself on so many occasions that we're almost surprised he made it to 86. From falling off roofs, to skiing without turning or really knowing how to stop, to driving like road rules were just suggestions, Dad lived life at only one speed: pedal to the metal. A gentle and kind man, who would literally give you the shirt off his back, Dad loved nothing more than wearing his tool belt and working on a project. No bathroom or kitchen was safe. No one could suggest hiring a professional, because Dad would just show up ready to work.

We will miss you terribly Jim, Poppy, Grandpa, Dad. Your love has always been big, and our family will rest easier knowing you are at peace. Although we never wanted to say goodbye, we know you left a legacy of love and laughter. Thank you, Dad.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Diabetes Canada or the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, January 17th at 1:00pm at Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre 14831 28th Ave, Surrey, BC V4P 1P3 with reception to follow.