James Thomas Kitch

James Thomas Kitch passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 in Calgary, Alberta of various health issues at the age of 83 years. Jim was born in Flin Flon, Manitoba on March 8, 1942, and left us just eleven days shy of his 84th birthday. He is survived by his wife, Liz, of almost 61 years; his two daughters, Sandra Markovich (Pete), and Linda Rhyason; as well as his grandchildren: Erik Rhyason, Rachel Rhyason (Sharif Entezari), Katy Markovich, and Daniel Markovich.

Jim was a carpenter by trade. After moving to Calgary, he became an instructor at SAIT for carpentry and building structures. After leaving SAIT, he partnered with his friend, Ken Feiber, to start Mistik Construction Ltd., a general contracting company, which began with garages and home additions to commercial buildings, such as motels, gas stations, bingo halls, and the like. After selling Mistik, he worked for the government as a building inspector for the Siksika Nation. He also enjoyed renovating private houses. All in all, Jim loved to be busy and would help out anyone with a project for the reasonable price of a glass of good Scotch.

Jim grew up in a time when children lived free-range, and he took great advantage of his youth and the great outdoors. He was an exceptional outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. With the exception of his wife and family, his greatest love was flying. He earned his private pilot’s license over fifty years ago and has had many adventures flying his Cessna 180 to destinations all over North America, right up to his last year with us.

Jim always cherished the time he spent with his large extended family. His charisma and ability to talk to anyone he encountered provided him with many dear friends. Our family would like to thank everyone who was a part of his story. A celebration of his incredible life will be held in Calgary sometime this summer of 2026.

Please join us for a “Celebration of Jim’s Life” on Saturday July 18, 2026 at 7108 - 8 Street N.W., Calgary, Alberta. An open house will be hosted from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a memorial ceremony starting at 1:00 p.m.

During the ceremony, we welcome anyone who wishes to share their memories of Jim. There will also be a memory book to record your favorite story, or “Jim Joke”, so his family can have a remembrance of all the connections of friends and family he made during his life.