Obituaries

James Moses

Born: 10 December 1921 in St. Newlyn East, Nr Newquay Cornwall, England

Died: 06 August 2013 in Sidney, BC, Canada

Jim (James) Moses, beloved father and grandfather, died suddenly and without suffering in his home in Sidney, British Columbia on Tuesday, August 6th, 2013. While his family will miss his vital spirit and loving presence, they’re comforted by the knowledge that his final day was full of activity and enjoyment ~ just as he would have wanted ~ including an excellent game played at the Sidney Lawn Bowling Club and a bike ride home. Survived by his children, Roger (Cheryl), Jennifer (Paula), Richard (Faye) and Judith (Dar); and grandchildren, Craig (Marie), Evan (Jessica), Martha and Ryan.

Born in St. Newlyn East, Cornwall, England, Jim left his village to join the Royal Air Force at the onset of WWII, fulfilling his boyhood dream of becoming a pilot. At the War’s end, he returned to Wolverhampton, England as a flight instructor where he met his future wife, Ann (nee: Fox). In 1947, Jim and Ann emigrated to Cobourg, Ontario with their infant son, Roger, where Jim took up his work as a bricklayer and embraced the responsibilities and joys of his growing family, including building his own family’s homes on Tremain and Anne Streets. During his time in Cobourg (1947-1987), he was an engaged community member: he played euphonium with the Cobourg Kilties; was involved with Trinity United Church; and was an active member and Commodore of the Cobourg Yacht Club for many years.

After wrapping up his working years as a realtor, Jim and Ann left a lifetime of wonderful memories and friends in Cobourg and followed the sun to Vancouver Island, living in Mill Bay until Ann passed away in 2000, at which time Jim relocated to Sidney where he remained until his death.

Jim’s love of life, adventurous spirit and drive for excellence were evident in all that he did; he was a wonderful story-teller and always up for a bit of fun. It’s no surprise that the following quote was posted on his fridge: “The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of the child into old age, which means never losing your enthusiasm.” (Aldous Huxley) A life-long learner, he read voraciously, was an avid opera fan, took up Chi Gong at 70, and taught himself to play the recorder when he was well into his 80s. Jim was also a great cook, an exceptional gardener and an enthusiastic choir member. Clearly an active, creative person, Jim was especially engaged with his painting, as evidenced by the numerous pictures hanging on his studio walls and the painting-in-progress left on his easel when he passed away.

As committed as he was to his own learning, he was also a wonderful teacher ~ whether strategizing with Roger about the best way to build his patio or teaching Martha how to play chess, he was always ready to share his knowledge and experience with family and friends (and anyone else willing to listen!). And while we’ve benefitted in countless ways from all he has given us, his final lesson is possibly the most valuable and we know it will continue to inspire us in the months and years to come: there is no joy as great as that of life well lived.

In accordance with Jim’s wishes, there will be no service or public remembrance. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family invites friends and acquaintances to share a story or memory of Jim with us. You’re welcome to send an email via www.carefuneral.com/obituaries; or drop us a line: The Moses Family, c/o 2273 East 2nd Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., V5N 1G1