It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of James “Jim” Murray Wickenden at the age of 74. Beloved son of the late William “Bill” Wickenden and Patricia Wickenden (née Blueman). Brother to William (wife Faye) and Barbara Eles (husband Rick). Loving father of Genevieve Janeczek (husband Darren) and Sarah May. Proud grandfather to Veronica, Alice, Brian, Gwendolen and Mariah. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. “Fur dad” to his childhood pet “Laddie” and his beloved cat “Dorian”, who looks over High Castle.
Jim was born and raised in the South End of Sudbury in the Walford Road area. As a child, he attended both MacLeod Public School and Lockerby Composite School. Later, he attended the University of Toronto and then graduated from Laurentian University with a Bachelor of Psychology in 1984. He worked briefly as a layman at INCO, and then as a social service worker for the Sudbury Developmental Services at the Adele Samson Center and again at the Jarrett Value Center before his retirement.
Jim had a passion for canoeing and the outdoors. He, along with his camping friends, John Larmer, Doug Bell, and Harry Sheppard, paddled throughout Ontario with a special focus on Lake “Mother” Superior, to which Jim felt a spiritual connection. Jim also participated for years in the local Beaton Classic fitness race.
Jim was an excellent Scrabble player. It was the rare game he lost, as he knew many two and three word combinations, and how to capitalize on those Triple Word scores. Throughout his life, he was always fascinated by photography, videography, and the latest technology. His videos were his way of preserving precious memories with family and friends for years to come. More recently in his retirement, Jim enjoyed traveling to Cuba, home renovations and caring for
plants in his newly built solarium.
Jim leaves behind a wonderful legacy and will be greatly missed by all who loved him. There will be a church service for James Wickenden on Saturday February 24 at 2PM at Redeemer Lutheran Church located 1199 Lansing Avenue in Sudbury.
There will be refreshments and some words from the family following the service. In lieu of flowers, a donation towards a headstone would be greatly appreciated.
Cremation Services by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury.