James "Jim" Richard McQuinn

Beloved husband and best friend of Trudy McQuinn (née Roberts) for 45 years. Jim was a devoted father to Michael (Deborah) and Peter (predeceased). Cherished Papa of Maggie, Julia (predeceased) and Matthew.

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his former wife, Claire Portelance-McQuinn. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Mary McQuinn (née McHugh) and James Patrick McQuinn, as well as his brother Paul McQuinn (Agnes). He will be fondly remembered by his sister Patricia McQuinn (Jo), along with extended family and friends.

Jim was a principled man, courageous, and the best friend you could ask for. He was generous without asking for anything in return. His spontaneous manifestations of a unique sense of humour were well known. (If not always fully appreciated at first listen.)

At the age of 18 he entered the Air Force and obtained his pilot's license. He went on to graduate from Air Traffic Control School, later becoming the youngest controller in the Toronto tower at the time. This led to a 34.5 year career in various capacities with Transport Canada which included Air Traffic Control in several major cities, as airport control tower manager in St. Catharines, and later as an instructor/course director at the Federal training facility in Cornwall.

Jim's interests were many. He built his first sailboat at the age of 12. Fast forward a few decades and he was using celestial navigation to cross the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands to Barbados. Another notable trip included a voyage from St. Catharines to Bermuda, where the crew were challenged by a hurricane, (after which we would often hear him quote the expression 'there are no atheists at sea'). He also captained our boat "Walkabout" up the Saguenay and back to Long Sault Ont .

Jim was an active member of Stormont Yacht Club over a period of 34 years. During his tenure he had the honour to act as HarbourMaster and Commodore. Jim and Trudy spent many happy winters in Punta Gorda Florida with wonderful friends.

At Age 35 he cleared the land on Hughes Lake, Quebec, and built our family cottage. No blueprints used, just imagination and a set of wooden popsicle sticks for a model to guide him. Many good friends lent a hand in its creation and many a fine meal was shared under its roof.

As an avid sportsman, Jim enjoyed deer hunting and some rowdy company at the hunt camp he co-owned on Manitoulin Island for over 40 years. He also enjoyed fishing with friends and family every chance he got.

Jim will be remembered for his strength, quiet kindness, and dedication to his family. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lahaie & Sullivan Cornwall Funeral Homes – West Branch (613-932-8482). Visitation will take place at the funeral home, 20 Seventh Street West, on Friday, April 10th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at St. Peter’s Church, 2900 Second Street East, on Saturday, April 11th at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at a later date.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to a charity of your choice or, if you are able, a donation at your nearest blood bank would be appreciated. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.lahaiesullivan.ca.