Obituary of James Gregory Saunders

JAMES (JIM) GREGORY SAUNDERS Jim passed peacefully on the morning of August 14, 2016. He was born September 6, 1956 in Saskatoon to Theresa and Gordon Saunders, and was a big brother to the “kid” Karen (Saunders). Jim was hired on with CP Rail in Sutherland fresh out of high school in July 1975 and after only seven years, he was promoted to Yardmaster; the youngest officer ever to be appointed by CP. Several other positions followed in Saskatoon, Winnipeg and Regina. Jim returned to the road as Conductor during the last several years of his career working out of Moose Jaw, and many new hires benefited from having the “the Colonel” as their trainer during this time. After 36 years, Jim retired in November 2011. Jim could talk to anyone about anything, and given the opportunity he would talk your ear off, with stories often greatly embellished and frequently interlaced with colourful language. Then there were the often hilarious “things that Dad said...” Jim was painfully thorough in everything he did, which usually resulted in exhaustive research and strong advice on any planned purchases, or detailed itineraries for trips. He also had little patience for any delays resulting from what he considered frivolous activities such as applying makeup, straightening hair, putting on a third outfit, etc. Jim’s true character emerged following his diagnosis in 2012, and he taught us a lot about life, love and dying. His strength, positive attitude and sense of humour were an inspiration to many. His determination to live life to the fullest allowed us to make many beautiful memories during the past 4 years. This included vacations in Hawaii and Cuba, cruising in the “Vette”, road trips to BC, several concerts including Elton John in Las Vegas; Kirsten and Taylor’s wedding and their wonderful gift of allowing Tracey and him to renew their vows. Most important though was just being together. We encourage you to embrace the lessons we’ve learned – treasure every moment of every day, don’t put off doing anything until tomorrow, live life on your terms, hold hands whenever you can, and tell your loved ones you love them every day. Above all else, his priorities the past four years were his girls – Trace (Mann), Keely, Kirsten (Kowalchuk) – ensuring we were all looked after, right to his final days. He was thrilled to welcome “Taylor Boy” to the family and to have a guy to escape from the girls with. We will always feel his loving and protective arms around us. We would like to thank the Allan Blair Cancer Clinic and Palliative Home Care teams for their excellent care and support, and particularly to allow him to remain at home. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jim’s memory to the Allan Blair Cancer Centre, c/o SK Cancer Agency, 200-4545 Parliament Avenue, Regina, SK S4W or United Way Regina, 1440 Scarth Street, Regina, SK S4R 2E9. A celebration for family and friends will be held at a later date. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com