July 22, 1932 - April 26, 2020
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother Mary (Marie) Jim, in her 88th year on April 26, 2020. She was predeceased by her loving husband Gung Loy Jim who passed in 1995 and her sister Nell Krause. Marie was a devoted mother to Kam (Pam), Kee (Camille), Kym (Sarah) and Kyn (Melissa). Loving grandmother to Chris, Jenny, Ty, Cruz, Sola, Mateo and Tiegan. Cherished great-grandmother to Graham. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Linda Krause, Lee Palmer, Kim Cartwright, Gai Lawson, John Cartwright, and Anne Cartwright.
Marie was born on July 22, 1932 in Kamloops, B.C. She spent her childhood and youth moving around the lower mainland and the interior of BC travelling with her parents as her father worked on the railway. In 1955, she visited her sister Nell in Little Fort, BC. Nell was married to Ben Krause, a local rancher. Mom met Dad during that trip, and they were married on October 18, 1956. Marie and Loy had a wonderful life together as they both worked very hard to make a go of three businesses. Jim Man Lee Store, the ranch (Little Fort Herefords) and Ta Weel Lake Fishing Camp. She was a storekeeper, a participant in all ranch activities including changing hand irrigation pipes and the chef at the fishing camp. In addition, she looked after the bookkeeping, which was no small feat given Dad's propensity for financial chaos. Mother had a strong love for all creatures, and she ensured that all animals at the Jim ranch from cats to cows were well taken care of. Marie worked as hard as any man and we are grateful to our parents for the sacrifices that they made so that we would have better lives.
Marie was a relentlessly driven person whose tenacity and resiliency was legendary. Much of what we have accomplished is due to the work ethic that she instilled in us from an early age. In Mom's world, there was nothing that could not be overcome by working hard and if that failed, just work harder!
At times, Marie could convey a hard exterior, but those that knew her well, realize that she was the strong matriarch of our family who managed to create decent citizens out of four unruly boys! She simply wanted the best for us and poured her heart and soul into creating opportunities for us. We are extremely proud of our mother and will cherish our memories of her forever.
The Jim family would like to thank the long list of wonderful people who were caregivers to Mom and allowed her to live at home on the ranch as her physical health failed. Most recently, the dedicated caregivers included Raquel Castillo, Shannon Catcheside, Lori Sheldrick, Denise Howe, Carrie Sterling, Josee Hartfield, Tammy Pennington, and Starrlyn Paul. Also, we are eternally grateful to Marie's special friend and guardian angel, Jackie, who lovingly looked after her for many years. Marie's light shone brightest when Jackie was with her, and we cannot thank Jackie enough for being mom's confidant and tireless advocate.
In accordance with Marie's wishes, she will be cremated and her remains will be interred at the Little Fort Cemetery in a private family service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local food bank.