James David Wilkie
Passed in: Sugar Loaf
Passed on: February 19th, 2015
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who passed peacefully with his family at his side Feb. 19, 2015.
Jim began his journey at the Cape St. Lawrence lighthouse. He spent his formative years in Sugar Loaf and moved his young family to Leitches Creek. He began a career in the construction industry, working with JW Rudderham’s in the Pier. He later partnered with five co-workers to form AB Mechanical, one of the largest mechanical contractors in Nova Scotia.
After a long and successful career in the industry, Jim was honoured with distinction and inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame in September 2009. He then moved back to his beloved Sugar Loaf and retired “Jim Wilkie-style,” partnering with his son, David, launching a new company, J. Wilkie Mechanical. He continued to work until his death. Jim was very active in the community, notably with North Highlands Community Museum and Safer Communities.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, of 49 years, Viola (Fricker); their two sons, Ken (Donna MacIntosh) of Leitches Creek, and David (Raelene Smith) of Howie Centre. His adored grandchildren, Shaena, Breagha, Jenna and Chad. He is also survived by one sister, Sylvia Fitzgerald and her family, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Margaret 'Peg' (Timmons) and David Fraser Wilkie.
Visitation will be held Tuesday Feb. 24, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Fillmore & Whitman Funeral Home, 10 Clyde Ave., Sydney Mines. Wednesday visitation will be 4-9 p.m. in Aspy Bay United Church with funeral service to follow on Thursday at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be made to the Wilkie family by visiting www.fillmoreandwhitman.com.
Jim’s Mantra “nothing is ever so bad it couldn’t be worse."
