Obituaries

James Norman Palmer

It is with great sadness that the family of Jim Palmer announces his passing on August 1, 2021 with his family by his side at the age of 89 years.

Jim is survived by his wife Marilyn;  sons Mitch (Heather) and Jay; grandchildren, Bryana, Brenley, Brody and Josh; sister-in-law Lynda (Jim), their daughter Lindsay, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Fred and Edith Palmer, siblings, Dorothy, Ruby, Vera, Grace, Violet, Fredrick, Reginald.

Jim was born at the original Grace Hospital in Winnipeg MB on June 12th,1932. He was a proud and active member of the St. James community for his entire life. Jim lived life to the fullest. As a young man he was involved in many sports including baseball, track and field and hockey. He also played lacrosse and in1951 his Junior All Star Team captured the Western Canadian Championship. His team and Jim individually were honored in the Manitoba Lacrosse Hall of Fame. He was fondly remembered as the Break Away Kid. In addition, he played football for the Weston Wild Cats and then in 1954 he played with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He also enjoyed curling and went to the Western Canadian Firefighters Championship and was awarded the all-star second. Later he went on to coach youth hockey, football, and lacrosse.

In 1952 Jim met Marilyn and they were married three years later. The two had a great partnership as Jim always knew to follow Marilyn’s lead. He was so excited to have recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary.

Jim cherished his times at Grand Beach, MB. Growing up, Jim’s parents took their whole family to Grand Beach on the train for two weeks each summer. Jim continued this tradition by building his own camping trailer and going to Grand Beach with his family and friends. Later he was thrilled to experience fond memories with his granddaughters when his son bought a cabin there.

He worked at the CPR Weston Shops as a machinist for ten years. Later he joined the St. James Fire Department and retired as a Captain with the City of Winnipeg after 33 years.

Jim’s garage was a special place. He was known to everyone as Mr. Fix it. He also loved the 33 years that he spent sharpening skates, making many friends, and listening to Charlie Pride.
He always enjoyed travelling and especially the many trips to Hawaii that inspired his Hawaiian themed basement that hosted many celebrations.
Family meant the world to Jim, and he was extremely proud of his two sons and grandchildren for their accomplishments. Jim also treasured all the friendships that he made throughout his life.

Jim was fortunate to have met many thoughtful and caring staff while living at Sturgeon Creek 1.

The family would like to thank the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and the Health Science Centre GB3 staff for their respectful care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Firefighters’ Burn Fund. Either online at www.burnfundmb.ca or to PO Box 45001 RPO Kildonan Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2C 5C7, Winnipeg Fire Department Burn Fund or charity of your choice.

In respecting Jim’s wishes there will be no formal service.