Back in 1965 I was sent by Employment Canada to a company called Wheels & Equipment and report to a Jim Wallwork.  While being interviewed by Jim, I reeled off the various jobs that I had held and then realized I was appearing to be someone who couldn't hold a job for any decent length and attempted to explain myself, only to be told by Jim that he found my resume quite interesting and working at various tasks was a sign of someone who had a unique gift.  I was a bit stunned, but quite appreciative at someone who had a broader view of human behavior that one would normally expect.   I enjoyed working for Jim.  I often wondered about him: was he still alive? retired?  still in this city?


I worked with Jim in a wholesale company in Vancouver from 1965 till the mid-70s.  He was the sales manager and the man who hired me.  Although he seemed stern, he had a warmth and humor that touched me.  He was sharp-witted and a delight to engage with in any conversation.  A few years back, HBO ran a western series called "Deadwood" covering the gold rush and the lawless behavior in that 19th century South Dakota town.  A main character in the story was the saloon keeper named Al Swearingen played by Ian McShane who was almost a double for Jim Wallwork.  It seemed so strange watching that show and seeing an old friend - kinda.
I was recently talking with an old fellow employee who told me of Jim's passing, so I'm sort of catching up here.

Our lives were touched by a beautiful man in a grand way.  You have left a bright shining beacon to ever remind us of the gift of having known you, and shared your incredible story.
Lovingly, Maureen and Adam(Jim) Smith

To Kirk (step-son), Kirk's mum and family ... I am sorry for the physical loss of your loved one, but know you will take much comfort and inspiration in the eternal memories, achievements and legacy he leaves. Sending you love as you celebrate these gifts. I am inspired to learn more about him and look forward to sharing warm (and funny) moments hearing more stories... 

Warmth & peace,
Sylvie Hill, Ottawa

I first learned of Jim Wallwork in 2004 when I read a book about the Pegasus Bridge assault.I subsequently saw him interviewed for a documentary about the first day of D Day.I read his obituary in The Times a few days ago.I am a 52 year old man whose mother and father survived World War Two.They passed on many stories to me of their wartime expieriences.Obviously I never met Mr. Wallwork,however I would like to say this.I am a Salford Lad born and bred.I went to De La Salle College,down the road from where Jim was educated at Salford Grammar,albeit in a different era.I would have loved to have met him to talk about his Salford days,his wartime expieriences and his subsequent life in Canada.I am a very proud Salfordian and I am proud to say that Mr. James Wallwork D.F.M. came from my home town.

Many sympathies at your sad loss.

Yours Sincerely,

Philip Donlan.

I have not had the pleasure of meeting this incredible man... read his book via my friend Jina Mc.. have met his daughter and Helen, my condolences, your dad was an incredible man.....

patti

I am ever so grateful for the honour of having Jim as a friend.  A great man indeed!  Thank you to both Jim and Genevieve for treating me so well and sharing your home (and many wonderful meals) with me.  What great memories I have!  Jim, you will be greatly missed by so many people.  My most sincere condolences to the entire family.

I have visited the landing beaches many time in the last twenty years and have read many of the available records of the amazing events of June 6th. This man's life shines out as a   beacon, we all owe a great debt of gratitude to him. The family have every reason to be incredibly proud and the rest of us very very grateful for a life that made a difference to all of us.

Although I only met Jim on a few brief occasions, his personality, zest for life and genuine concern for everyone he met in his life path can be used as a model for humanity to take note of and emulate.  His humour, and 'cheekiness' drew you to him instinctively.  He touched all of us lucky enough to meet and know him and his passing is a massive loss to the world on the whole. Indeed one of the great heroes of our time, and his memory will live on forever. We need to cherish his memory and 'crack on' for sure.  There is a hole in my heart upon hearing this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Genevieve's and Jim's extended families.

Like others I find myself lucky enough to say I met Jim once, in the Museum of Army Flying.  I was also fortunate in that I enjoyed several long distance discussions by air mail on many things aviation whilst I was serving.  A courageous and skillful soldier, pilot and a friendly, cheerful man.  Can one say more.  Jim will be missed by us all in the GPRA.

I was very privileged to meet Jim and his lovely wife Genevieve when I interviewed Jim on video on his 88th birthday in 2007, an interview that I presented to the Pegasus Museum in March 2012. He was one of the legendary heroes in World War II, who along with his co-pilot Johnny Ainsworth were the first Allied servicemen to touch ground during the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. Jim also participated in all the major Allied airborne operations in World War II: Sicily, D-Day, Arnhem, Rhine Crossing. Rest in peace, Jim. A true gentleman and very interesting person.

My dad. Sam Isaacs, was a fellow recipient of the DFM. He fly gliders into Sicily, D Day & Arnhem and ended up in India. He died in 1986 and I don't think I'll ever not miss him. I read Jim's story years ago and the similarity between the two is uncanny. I still miss Sam terribly... Bless em all, eh?

I met Jim a couple of times at Pegasus Bridge. My father in law was Geoff Barkway No.3 glider pilot operation deadstick..these were great men RIP Jim.

I had the honour of meeting this great man at Pegasus Bridge as part of the 60th Anniversary celebrations. As a current member of the AAC these great men have always been an inspiration to us. He will be missed by all in his extended family. To follow in his footsteps is a great honour. Rest in peace sir.

I never knew Jim, but I read his story today in The Province. The obituary brought tears to my eyes. What an amazing journey ... especially his WWII experience ...  and told so well by his family.  Goodbye Jim and thank you.

My life was greatly enriched by having known Jim. It is with a heavy heart that I must now bid him adieu. Rest in peace.

Soft landings Jim!! It was a true privilege have met you and a true honour to call you a friend..
We will always remember.. Rest in piece.

A truly memorable man!  We were so honoured to have met Jim and Genevieve quite a few years ago in Bucerias.  We shall never forget your wonderful sense of humour Jim, nor your kindness and respect.  God Bless.

Another old soldier fading away. It will be a long time before Jim completely fades away.

On behalf of the Rt. Hon. Sir Winston Spencer Churchill Society of British Columbia, I send our condolences to your family.  Our members well remember Jim's describing his landing at Pegasus Bridge where so many of our members have visited.  Jim participated in a presentation where eight Canadians, all of whom participated in the landings on D-Day, gave descriptions of their experiences.  Jim's contribution to victory will be well remembered.

Kindest regards, 
Christopher Hebb, 
President, The Rt. Hon. Sir Winston Spencer Churchill Society of British Columbia

Jim, you have been a GREAT friend to Hank and I.  We had many, many laughs, and conversations together with you and Genevieve.  You were a great gentleman and we will miss you.
Sincerely Hank and Liz

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

James H Wallwork

21 octobre 1919 – 24 janvier 2013

Victory Memorial Park & Funeral Centre

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