Obituary of James Arthur McKay

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Arthur McKay (Jimbo).

Jim passed peacefully in his sleep on October 6, 2023.

Jim was always smiling and happy even with all his struggles in life.  He had such a great sense of humor. You could always count on him for a laugh and the Jimbo dance. When asked how he was he would reply with a smile “living the dream” and grab for the kidneys.

Jim chose the career of being a roofer… which wasn’t the best choice as he tended to fall off roofs.

Jim had a brain aneurism in 2005 then he lost his kidneys in 2008 and had been on dialysis for over 15 years. Being on dialysis for this long caused several other health issues for Jim. He was a steady visitor to not only Cranbrook but to Trail and Kelowna Hospitals.

When out of hospital Jim and Leslie enjoyed Friday Date Day. Jim enjoyed the drives in the country especially when they ventured to his favorite place Creston and going to Tim’s Fish and Chips.

Jim was a huge Winnipeg Bombers fan but always a Saskatchewan Roughriders fan deep down. Our biggest family gatherings were always Labour Day Classic, Banjo Bowl and the Grey Cup.

In March he needed surgery to help balance his calcium. It didn’t work and he ended up with paralyzed vocal cords and needing a tracheotomy. Towards the end his bones were so brittle he fell and broke his arm. They were not able to fix the break. He then started getting incredible pain in his spine and it wasn’t long until his spine collapsed. During all of this he didn’t complain (well unless he couldn’t go for a smoke LOL). He always smiled and was happy to see everyone.

During his last days, many family and friends came to say goodbye and tell him he was loved. He was so happy and appreciated everyone who came and called. He was comforted by the thoughts of seeing Mom and his dog Dylan.

Leslie read this to Jim several times over the last few days to bring him happiness and comfort. This is from Mom’s journal. “This is the day I gave birth to my last child James Arthur September 26, 1965 at Regina General Hospital. The night was stormy and snow was falling. Jim was a blue baby and had to be watched carefully all night. I am thankful for the love and life of J A M.  Jimbo was 8 lbs 9 ounces – a big and happy boy and still is.”

Jim is predeceased by his mom Velma and dog Dylan.

He leaves to morn his dad Ken, his loving and supportive partner Leslie Ploeg, stepson Ryan and granddaughter Jersey, Mother-in-law Johanna Ploeg aka ‘Uma’, brother Mike (Veronica), sisters Carrie (Ian), Tracy and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wants to thank the many hospital nurses and doctors who have helped him over the years. Jim knew a lot of them by name and they all knew him - always with a friendly smile and hello.

A celebration of life will be held October 21, 2023 at 3 -6 pm at his childhood home (3812 42^nd Ave S Cranbrook). Basic refreshments will be served (water coffee …) if you would like to make a toast to Jim BYOB and a lawn chair.