James Findlay

April 6, 1930 – October 5, 2024

Surrounded by his beloved family, James (Jim) Findlay passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, after a short battle with cancer.

Survived by his wife of 69 years Janet (Jenny) Findlay, daughter Lisa Pidhirniak (Peter), son Michael Findlay (Michelle), granddaughter Sarah Hamilton (Lorne), grandson Ryan Pidhirniak (Kelli Severson) and great-granddaughters Reagan and Quinn Pidhirniak.

Predeceased by his father George H. Findlay, mother Jean Findlay, and sisters Sarah (Sadie) McKendrick and Anna Findlay.

Born in Sanquhar, Scotland, he completed his secondary education at Dumfries Academy in 1947, after which he enlisted in the British Army’s Royal Engineers, where he completed his training as an Architectural Draftsman through the Royal School of Military Engineering. During his time in the Royal Engineers, he was dispatched to both Malaya and Singapore as part of the Far East Land Forces, before leaving the British Army in 1951.

After returning to Sanquhar, he worked alongside his father George as Assistant Manager of three cinemas in the Dumfries area of Scotland.

On April 28, 1955, Jim married the love of his life, Janet (Jenny) Welsh. In 1957, they made the brave decision to emigrate to Canada, settling first in Winnipeg where their children Lisa and Michael were born, before moving to West Vancouver in 1966 where they raised their family, and eventually retiring in Coquitlam.

A respected Specification Consultant in the construction industry for almost 60 years, Jim was President of the Specification Writers Association of Canada from 1970 - 1971. Jim was instrumental in the shaping of the Vancouver skyline as a member of the architectural teams responsible for such landmarks as the Vancouver Law Courts, Pacific Centre, The Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre, Expo ‘86 Projects, Park Place, and Commerce Place.

An avid sports fan, Jim was a devoted follower of football his entire life – he was a youth soccer coach for the West Vancouver Spuraways and a proud and lifelong supporter of his beloved hometown club, Queen of the South F.C. Jim never missed an opportunity to watch the Premier League and Champions League with a special interest in international football.

A longtime Vancouver Canucks fan, he was a season ticket holder in the early years of their entrance into the NHL.

Beloved by his family and many friends, Jim left a lasting impact on all those he encountered. His departure from this life leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends, yet they find comfort in the memories and everlasting love they shared.

Always quick with a joke, story, or memory, Jim was completely devoted to his family and spent as much time with them as possible. Many happy years were spent together talking, laughing, listening, and reminiscing. These special memories will keep Jim alive in all their hearts and minds forever.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Crossroads Hospice for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Crossroads Hospice Society and/or the BC Cancer Foundation. And if you are so inclined, please raise a glass of Jim’s favourite scotch whisky - The Famous Grouse - in celebration of his 94-year journey.