In Remembrance
It is with sadness that the family announces the passing of James “Jim” Gregory Niven of Minitonas, MB. at St. Anthony’s Hospital in The Pas, where he passed away on July 29th, 2015, at the age of 63 years.
Jim was born on March 23rd, 1952 and was brought home to the Minitonas family farm by his chosen parents, Jean and Dave Niven when he was two months old.
After receiving his education in Minitonas, an 18 year old Jim jumped into life as a truck driver. He loved the road and enjoyed travelling throughout Canada and the US. For a few of his younger years he took a break from trucking and found employment at the mine in Thompson, MB. But, he eventually returned to his true passion as a truck driver. Some of his
happiest times during this rewarding career were when he travelled with his Dad.
Jim was a man of many hobbies and likes which included fishing,
camping, gardening and tinkering in the shop on various projects. He was a proud man from the old school upbringing and he loved his children, Jillian and Tyler, dearly in his own special way.
One thing that surprised everyone, including his wife, was that he was a wedding planner. He called Annette on November 2nd, 2013, after being together for fourteen years, and told her they were getting married on
November 16th 2013 and told her all she had to do was to sign the licence and show up at the wedding. Family and friends were notified prior to the wedding with it turning out beautifully and yes, Jim had it his way.
Jim had many friends throughout his life and treasured them all. When you spoke to Jim, he always had many stories regarding his road trips. Jim loved to talk on the phone. You knew he was telling his stories because the phone line would be busy for hours. He will be dearly missed by all who got to know him.
Left to mourn Jim’s passing are: his wife Annette; daughter Jillian; son Tyler (Kirsten); stepdaughter Treena (Jordan Rooks); sister Deborah (Todd Martin); nephew Niall Martin; niece Kairo Martin, grandchildren Riley, Mason, Dylan, Hunter, Caleb and Landen.
Jim was predeceased by his parents Dave and Jean Niven; mother-in-law Mrs. Mary Veito, and grandparents.
Funeral Service
Saturday, August 8th, 2015 at 11:00 AM from The
Knox United Church, Minitonas, Manitoba
Officiating: Reverend Kathy Highmoor
Organist: Ann Mateika
Urn Bearer
Tyler Niven
Honorary Pallbearers
All of those in attendance are to consider
themselves as honorary pallbearers.
Resting Place
Following the service, Jim will be laid to
rest in The Minitonas Cemetery, Minitonas, Manitoba.
Fellowship Luncheon
Following the graveside service, a time of
fellowship and refreshments will be held from Minitonas Town Hall. All are welcome to attend.
Memorial Donations
Should friends and family so desire, memorial
donations in Jim’s honour may be made to:
Knox United Church (Box 177, Minitonas, MB. R0L1G0) or the Swan Valley Animal Protection League (Box 2738, Swan River, MB, R0L1Z0).