Obituary of James Jim Kennedy

James Ian Kennedy of Grenville-sur-la-Rouge, QC, passed away peacefully on Sunday February 18, 2024 at home after a short battle with cancer.  He was seventy-eight years old.

Jim, as he was better known, was born on August 4, 1945, in Grenville, QC, to the late Holland and Mary Kennedy of Rawcliffe, QC.  He was predeceased by his brothers Lyman and Vernon Kennedy, and sisters Glenna Wilson, Helen Nebelung and Olive Struve.  He was an incredibly hard worker his entire life, whether helping his parents on their farm, repairing all kinds of vehicles, taking over stewardship of the ancestral farm or helping neighbours.  He remained young at heart, with only the size of his toys getting bigger.  He had a voracious appetite for learning about all things, especially those with engines, and also sharing his vast knowledge with generations of colleagues, family, friends and neighbours.  Despite a gruff exterior, deep down he was a kind and caring person with a great sense of humour, always ready to lend a helping hand.

He was an avid aviator with a particular passion for flying float planes all over northern Quebec and Ontario.  Later on, he built his own airstrip and hanger on his farm, housing his beloved Aeronca Super Champ.  Professionally, he became a licensed mechanic, specialising in semitrailers, in particular those transporting hazardous materials.  He worked for various employers in Brownsburg and Montreal before starting with MacEwen Petroleum Inc. in Maxville, ON in 1985.  He remained there for over 30 years until his retirement as Head Mechanic in 2016 at the age of 70.  He is remembered for his loyalty, focus on safety and fastidiously ensuring all vehicles were repaired correctly and completely – do it right the first time or not at all.

Never one for great fanfare, Jim’s final wishes were to forego a funeral, in favour of a private family burial.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers or other commemorations, a donation be made to the Canadian Cancer Society to support continued research into all forms of cancer.

Funeral arrangements under the care of Hillcrest Funeral Home 151 Bond St. Vankleek Hill, ON K0B 1R0 613 678 2002.

A Tree of Remembrance for Jim will be planted in the McAlpine Forever Forest, Vankleek Hill.