James Frederick Harkness
June 26, 1936 - February 11, 2023
Funeral Details: A drop-in to remember James will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at Michael and Marion's, Barrie from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Passed away on 11th February, 2023 at the age of 86 years in Barrie, Ontario. Son of the late Joseph and Letitia Harkness. Beloved husband of Helen for 60 years and loving father to Lee and Genevra, and father-in-law to Glen. He was Grandad to Taylor, Madaleine, Miranda, and Emmeline, and also, brother of the late Mary, Joe, Rose, and Hetty. Jim and his stories will be missed by all his loved ones and his extended family.
Jim enjoyed a successful career in London, England as a building surveyor working for the government before retiring, firstly to Belle-isle-en-Terre, France and then emigrating to Canada in his 60s where he took his first skiing lessons, and in his 70s becoming a Canadian Citizen.
He was known for his unique logic and his quirky ways that made everyone smile. Jim’s tales of his post-war childhood and his life in the army in France were entertaining and thought-provoking.
A time for remembering James will be held at Michael and Marion’s, 89 Bayfield Street, Barrie on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, drop-in time from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
For those near and far, online memories and condolences may also be made at www.peacefultransition.ca
Sandra & Clive Filek
Posted on: Friday, February 24, 2023To Helen & family, our deepest condolences and thoughts are with you.
May your dear Husband, Father & Grandfather live forever in your hearts, remembering all the wonderful memories and feeling the warmth of his love for you always. Much love from Sandra, Clive Zeena, Sara & Carina X.
Genevra Willcox
Posted on: Wednesday, March 8, 2023Thankyou so much for your kind words
Genevra Willcox
Posted on: Wednesday, March 8, 2023Thank you so much for your kind words.
The Cowan Family
Posted on: Saturday, February 25, 2023To the Harkness family, we are deeply saddened that Jim has passed. He was a intelligent and interesting character. We fondly remember him telling us about his experiences doing National service, and his time spent in France. Jim made a positive difference in people’s lives, and will be missed.
Brian, Alison, Lily and Emily xxx
Genevra Willcox
Posted on: Wednesday, March 8, 2023Thank you Cowan family, for your kind words and your support x
Hilary-Fay Mellor
Posted on: Monday, February 27, 2023My heart is with Helen and her family…..l will always think of Jim as a maker…he was always making and fixing things….he seemed to have a very active mind and be interested in everything….l hope the sun shines on the day you come together to say your goodbyes to him….with love
Genevra Willcox
Posted on: Wednesday, March 8, 2023Thank you so much for your lovely memory of him, he was a maker, always busy, always fixing.