Cover photo for James "Jim" Strachan's Obituary
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James "Jim" Strachan

August 8, 1955 — July 9, 2024

James "Jim" Strachan

James “Jim” Ernest Andrew Strachan, August 8, 1955 – July 9, 2024

In his 69th year, Jim passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 9th 2024. Survived by his sons Matthew (Kim), Eric (Samantha), Adam (Kinsey) and their mother Linda (Leslie). Son of the late Doreen and James (Jim) Strachan, their beloved Jimmy will be dearly missed by his sisters Lori, Vicky and Beth, nieces and nephews, and his cherished colleagues and friends.

Born and raised in Toronto, he was rebellious from the start. An absolute bookworm, his high school nickname, “Webster,” meant Jim’s mouth could get him in and out of trouble in equal measure. It is there he met Linda. Jim and Linda were married, and had three sons – Matthew, Eric and Adam. Together, and apart, their lifelong friendship revolved around a deep and unwavering commitment to their children and families. He would drop anything for them. But, as most who knew him are aware, he would do that for pretty much anyone, at any time, and likely at his own expense. 

Jim was an improvised “fixer” of things. He was bright and well-read, loved music and art, and was most at-home at the treasured family cottage. There, a perfect day consisted of a good book, a sunset paddle, and the family around the campfire – a fireworks display soon to follow that was always as brilliant as it was dangerous. With a quick mind and still-quicker tongue, Jim could dip into a deep well of colourful swears when faced by unwieldy plumbing, or temperamental technology. He had a complicated relationship with ladders – in one instance falling from a tree; a running chainsaw followed not far behind him. Jim was also an avid sailor, kayaker and angler. He capsized every boat. Literally, every single one. Though he never quite mastered water – or gravity – he never feared them and couldn’t wait for his next project, or trip out on the waves. 

His long and successful career as a well-respected claims specialist gave him immense pride, with many of his colleagues becoming great friends over the years. He never shied away from working weekends or long into the night doing what he loved. He enjoyed a fine suit, but was most often found wearing a t-shirt and cargo shorts from Giant Tiger – “it’s GT Boutique” as he would say. 

A huge sports fan, he loved Formula 1 racing, riding motorcycles, playing hockey as a goalie, and loved (hated) the Leafs. With the gift of the gab, Jim’s mouth could run a mile a minute when he wasn’t snacking on cookies or jujubes, but his incredible sense of humor and relentless care for the people in his life always spoke loudest. There will be a lot more silence with him gone, but the score of memories he left will fill in the ongoing backtrack of our lives for years to come. 

He faced his later days with great courage and grace, the unknown with incessant curiosity, and treated his family and friends with deep respect and love. He was magnetic, and people simply excited him. Above all, he was happiest surrounded by friends and family; chatting, eating, and having fun. 

Please join us in a celebration of Jim’s full and vivid life on Saturday, July 20th at 1pm-3pm. 

Ward Funeral Home – Weston Chapel, Toronto 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Pancreatic Cancer Canada in Jim's memory.

Click Here to Donate


To send flowers to the family in memory of James "Jim" Strachan, please visit our flower store.

Past Services

Memorial Gathering

Saturday, July 20, 2024

1:00 - 3:00 pm (Eastern time)

Ward Funeral Home - Weston Chapel

2035 Weston Road, Toronto, ON M9N 1X7

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