July 13, 1954 – January 15, 2022

 

On January 15, 2022, James Douglas Francis passed away peacefully at the Grande Prairie Regional hospital at the age of 67 with his immediate family by his side.

 

Jim was born and bred a “ Bluenoser”, who moved to Grande Prairie in 1976 on the “two year” plan but ended up staying here for over 43 years. He first started working in Grande Prairie as a Social worker and then went on to open a counseling practice which he ran for over 40 years. Even up until his health began to decline, he always made sure that he was present for others.

 

Jim had three main loves in his life: his family, caring for and helping others, and being active. He was always on the move. He loved many types of sports. His favorites being; skiing, mountain biking, cycling, hiking, squash, and anything that involved being out on the water. You name it. He loved it.

 

Jim was an active member in the community. He sat on numerous boards and committees both locally and provincially over the years. He was actively involved with the Nitehawk Ski Hill Board for five years, and later became involved with the Northern Extreme Freestyle Ski club. This led him to become involved at the provincial level and eventually the national level in this sport. He was a member of the Canada Freestyle Association Board for 10 years and Chairman of that Association for 9 years.

 

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 43 years, Debbe and his son, Devan. His brothers Mike, Peter and his sister Dee and their children.  As well as the 70 plus members of his wife’s “Pierce “clan. He was so proud to be a member of that clan.

 

The Francis family are very appreciative of the staff at the Cancer Clinic, the Home Care staff and the Emergency Services staff of Grande Prairie who provided the upmost care, compassion and comfort during this phase in their lives.

 

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday January 29^th, 2022 by invitation only, for those unable to attend, a livestream of his service will begin at 1pm.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Canada Freestyle Association at freestylecanada.ski or 808 Pacific Street Vancouver, BC V6Z 1C2, Egale Canada at egale.ca or the Community Kitchen & One Window of Grande Prairie at gpfriendshipcenter.com/donations

 

“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” -Maya Angelou

 

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bearcreekfuneral.com

• Date : 2022-01-15
• Location : Grande Prairie, Alberta

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