Jim Welsh

January 5, 1938 – November 5, 2025

With heavy hearts, we share the news of Peter James (Jim) Welsh passing on November 5, 2025, at Burnaby General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. After a brief illness, Jim left this world peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and devotion.

Growing up in East Van, Jim spent over 70 wonderful years with his beloved wife Sharon. They were preparing to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on November 18, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and unwavering commitment to one another and their community.

Jim was a proud and loving father to Don (Cindy), Brian (Lynn), Karen (Darnell), and Susan (Ross), and a treasured Papa to Matt, Nicole, Jessica, Ian, Josh, and Owen, as well as a doting great-Papa to Harlee, Daxton, and Thatcher. His family was his pride and joy, and his presence at every sporting event or activity was a testament to his endless love and support.

A skilled carpenter by trade, Jim spent over 50 years perfecting his craft, his hands and heart shaping not only wood but also the lives of those around him. He was always the first to lend a hand with any project, big or small for family and friends. As a passionate soccer player, Jim continued playing into his fifties, forming many lifelong friendships along the way. His enthusiasm for sports lived on through his children, grandchildren and close friends, whom he coached and cheered for enthusiastically from the sidelines.

Jim will also be fondly remembered for his love of Sunday bike rides around Stanley Park — a cherished tradition he shared with his brother Fred for as long as we can remember, and one that welcomed many others along the way. Additionally, his daily walks, often totaling 10,000 steps, saw him exploring downtown, embarking on early morning ventures in Osoyoos, walking laps with his friends at Brentwood and, in the end, at Burnaby Hospital, where he left a lasting impression on the nurses with his perseverance.

Jim’s legacy is defined by dedication, kindness, and the deep bonds of family. He had a rare gift for making everyone he met feel like family. His warmth, sincerity and genuine care touched countless lives, leaving lasting memories in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, January 24 from 1-4pm at the Burnaby Mountain Golf Club located at 7600 Halifax St, Burnaby BC V5A 4M8. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of him to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.

The family asks that you honor Jim by spending time with loved ones, sharing a cup of tea with friends, taking a bike ride around Stanley Park, and cherishing the simple joys that make life meaningful - just as he always did.