James Kenneth Graham

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of James K. Graham on July 12, 2023 at the age of seventy-six in the Parkridge Centre, Saskatoon. Jim was born on November 7, 1946 to Ken and Rose Graham and was the eldest brother to Robert and Dave.

Jim grew up on a farm outside of Saskatoon in the Smithville area where he helped with the family grain farm and chicken barn operation.

As a young man, Jim graduated from the U of S with a bachelor’s degree in education. While establishing his career, Jim used his creative writer skills and worked with the Star Phoenix and the Western Producer. His real love and desire was to become an artist so in his mid-thirties, he took the big leap to paint full time. Jim spent the next 40 years honing his talent and became well known in the Saskatoon Arts Community for painting “realistic urban landscapes”. Jim’s paintings currently reside in private homes along with the Remai gallery, Medical Arts Centre, SK Arts Council, U of S and City of Saskatoon Community Centre.

Jim spent his leisure time actively swimming, perfecting finishing carpentry, gardening, and the artists guild. Jim was gifted musically and with anything Jim did, he strived for perfection. Jim would host birthdays and Christmas dinners for the whole family, even as his parents became less mobile. His commitment to his family was always strong. Overall, Jim was a quiet but thoughtful and a very gifted individual.

Jim is survived by his brother Dave (Cindy Elchuk), nephew Chris, sister-in-law Sharon Francis, niece Sara (Jamie) Hudye and step nephew Derrick (Sandi) Francis. He is also survived by many other relatives. He was predeceased by his parents, Ken and Rose Graham, brother Robert and sister-in-law Joanne Graham.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Artists Guild of Saskatoon.

Please join us in remembering Jim on Friday, July 28 at 2pm, St Pauls United Church, 454 Egbert Ave, Saskatoon. Lunch to follow service and interment will be later in August for family members at Smithville Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Mourning Glory-Acadia McKague’s Funeral Chapel (306)955-1600.