It is with heavy hearts that the family of Garfield Alexander James, known
affectionately to many as Gary or Bert announce his passing. Born on March 21,
1954, Bert lived a life rich in love, laughter, and simple joys before leaving us
gracefully on December 17, 2025 at the age of 71.
Bert was a devoted family man. He shared a beautiful life with his wife, Margaret
“Maggie” James, and was a proud father to his daughter, Casey James. His family
circle extended to his mother, Stella James, his brothers Richard (Norma) and Ken,
his sisters Shirley (Burt) Raynor and Donna (Dave) O’Brien and his many loved
nieces and nephews. Family was at the heart of everything he did, and his love for
them was unwavering.
Bert had many passions that brought him happiness. He loved cars, enjoyed long
drives, had a deep appreciation for classic rock music, and was an avid fan
of watching hockey—especially cheering for the Toronto Maple Leafs. He found
joy in life’s simple pleasures, cherished good conversation and time spent with
friends. He had a special love for animals, especially those brought home by
Casey. Even when he claimed to be against it, his heart always won, and those
animals became part of the family.
Professionally, Bert dedicated his career to the mining industry, working in
various roles for companies such as Barrick Gold and Newmont. His hard work
and commitment earned him respect among his peers and left a lasting impact on
the industry.
Bert’s life reminds us of the importance of cherishing the little things, loving
deeply, and embracing every moment. His laughter, kindness, and strength will
live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A heartfelt thank you is extended by the family to the team at Teck Pioneer
Residence who took such loving care of Bert over the last several months. Also,
to Betty Smallwood, Anne Paquette and Helena Hartling (from Palliative Care)
who dutifully sat with Bert, by his side during his final days. And last but certainly
not least, our wonderful friend Sandra Regada-Liciume who was with him and
holding his hand in comfort when he took his final breath.
As we say goodbye, let us honor Bert’s memory by living with the same warmth
and generosity he showed every day. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit
will forever guide and inspire us. A celebration of life to remember Bert will be
held in the Spring at the Royal Canadian Legion (date to be determined). In lieu of
flowers, donations can be made to Advocates for Northern Animals or the
Alzheimer’s Society of Canada in Bert’s honor.
“Carry on my wayward son, there’ll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary
head to rest, don’t you cry no more.” – Kansas
Sympathy Messages
Maggie and Casey,
I am going to miss Bert deeply. He was one of a kind and I cherish the memories he is a part of.
I can still hear his laugh in my head.
The write up said it perfectly about Casey being able to win him over.
Beet was a great Father, Husband and Friend 🥃
Cheers Bert
- Cathy Cholewinsky, on
December 24, 2025
Maggie, my deepest condolences to you and Casey during this time. Bert will be missed by so many. May your memories bring you peace and comfort…Xo
Shannon
- Shannon Carey, on
December 24, 2025
Maggie & Casy
So sorry to hear of his passing.
Maggie & Casey
So sorry to hear of his passing
He will be remembers for his great sense of humor & whit & at times his sarcasm at its best
He will be missed, may he rest in peace.
Pat & Lorraine
- Pat & Lorraine Kiely, on
December 24, 2025
Dear Maggie and Casey, my deepest condolences on the loss of Bert.
He was a great fun guy and friend in our youth and we shared many an adventure. And we remained friends throughout life even though time made us grow up a bit!
Always had a smile and a grin and his laugh was infectious!
You’ll be missed by all that knew and loved you. Rest easy Gary!
- Jim Naylor, on
December 24, 2025
Dear Maggie & Casey: So sorry to hear of Bert's passing. Sending heartfelt condolences to you both.
Bren
May my support warm your heart
- Bren Szalajko, on
December 25, 2025
Maggie and family so sorry to hear of Berts' passing... memories are the best to hang on to .
May my support warm your heart
- Dianne Callahan, on
December 25, 2025
Dear Maggie and Casey, we are so sorry for your loss. I have 55 years of memories with Bert. Never lost him at a party because whenever the music 🎶 was cranked, you would just look over to the stereo and see Bert with a big smile. We also looked forward to his visits to Kenogami, a Tim's coffee in hand or hailing him down while he was cruisin' Government Road. We will miss his smile, humour, laughter and friendship. Thinking of you both. Sending love and hugs.
Robert & Barbie
Turn up the music Bert! Then turn it up some more!!
May my support warm your heart
- Robert D'Andrea, on
December 25, 2025
Dear Maggie and Casey,
We are so very sorry to hear of Bert’s passing. May memories of better times keep him close in your heart.
- Sandra and Carlo Dal Pai, on
December 25, 2025
Maggie & family. I am so sorry to learn of Bert's passing. Sending deepest condolences. I always enjoyed talking with Bert when he was out for his walks on the street. Keep the memories tucked tightly in your heart. Big hugs!
- Erin Leffers, on
December 25, 2025
Maggie and families so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Condolences and hugs.
May my support warm your heart
- Lorrie Brough , on
December 26, 2025
I grew up with Gary. He lived right across the street from me. I also knew his Mom, Stella, and his siblings, Dick, Ken and Donna. I am very sad to hear of Gary’s passing. We enjoyed many escapades together, while growing up, and Gary was always there to lend a hand in my musical career. As a fellow ‘Federalite’ I know I join in many in sharing my deepest condolences with Gary’s family during this sad, and difficult time. May you rest well, my friend.
- Brett McNaueal, on
December 26, 2025
Maggie, Casey and Family. This horrible disease stole a beautiful man in Bert. That wonderful man is now free, loving you, and dancing somewhere. My deepest sympathy, Lynn
- Lynn Elliott, on
December 26, 2025
Maggie & Casey,
Sending you our Heartfelt Sympathy, with Strength to get through the days, weeks, months & year. HUGS
- Julie Foss , on
December 26, 2025
Deepest condolences Maggie and family at this difficult time
May all those good memories help get you through the days ahead
Jean
- Jean snowdon, on
December 26, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss! May your good memories help you both through this very difficult time
- Joanne McDonald, on
December 27, 2025
Condolences to Maggie and family.
Remember the fun good times.
- Scott Seguin, on
December 27, 2025
Maggie & Casey
I didn't know Bert that long I was more friends with you Maggie for years but whenever I did see you guys at the store in town he was always very friendly but very shy. I was glad to be able to meet him on a good day and I'm sorry that he had to leave so soon but I know for sure he's watching over you and Casey big hugs from me to you both
May my support warm your heart
- Nicky Moreau, on
December 27, 2025
Dear Maggie and Casey, My sincere condolences on your loss. A kind neighbour, Bert will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
May my support warm your heart
- Lynda Clark-McTaggart, on
December 27, 2025
My dearest friend Maggie and daughter Casey- May I give you my deepest condolences at this time of loss. Bert is always with you, talk to him still for he hears you, he is there in spirit. Celebrate the wonderful husband and soul mate and father he was. Celebrate his love and life that you shared, he took the love with him. He was and is a special man. Rest in peace Bert
May my support warm your heart
- Dianna Bond, on
December 27, 2025
Sorry for you loss. It was a great honour to meet Burt and his family. He was an amazing man.
- Vicky Emberley , on
December 27, 2025
Condolences to Maggy and Casey and the whole family.
Gary and Nancy Santia
May my support warm your heart
- Santia family, on
December 27, 2025
So sorry for your lose my friend I have known Maggie for years & almost every day I would meet up with Bert when I was out walking scooter he was out for a walk with his dog the dogs would play for a minute we chatted a bit,RIP BERT.
May my support warm your heart
- Bunny Downey , on
December 27, 2025
It seems to be our time in life to watch "the kids" we grew up with pass on. Not exactly what I had in mind.....
I remember Gary through my school years in Kirkland. I always had a high regard for him and his humour. Maybe we partied once or twice....?
I carry a piece of Gary with me. As we all do. He is a piece of who I am.
I appreciated the note about Gary and have watched over the past year or so as he faded. Heart wrenching and handled in a way that mattered. There is never a good way to face the pain. Any words I have to say are the silent ones of listening.
I am sad and so sorry.
- Brian Waldron , on
December 27, 2025
Mags & Casey. Sending you both strength and healing during this difficult time in your lives. Burt was one of a kind. I have so many years of wonderful memories on Algonquin. Rest easy Burt. Say hi to Shirl for us. Until we meet again ♥️
- Amber Sasseville , on
December 28, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Maggie and Casey.
May he now RIP
In the heaven’s he is in paradise smiling down and in comfort with God our Saviour
- MSG , on
December 29, 2025
Please accept our sincere condolences. We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers as you journey through this difficult time.
Joe and Cynthia
May my support warm your heart
- Joe and Cynthia Verge, on
December 29, 2025
Cherish all the good memories of Burt, He is at Peace now and cranking the music up for tonite's NEW year's party. Remember Burt and cherish his good days, NOT the Bad ugly ones. So sorry for your loss Maggie and Family + many good friends. RIP my friend Burt.
May my support warm your heart
- Judy (Cale) Gervais, on
December 31, 2025
So sorry for your loss Maggie and family. Bert was an amazing man. Lee and I have you all in our thoughts and prayers ♥️💙♥️
- Brenda Hansen, on
December 31, 2025
Our deepest condolences to the family
- Kirk and Jo-Ann, on
December 31, 2025
Dear Maggie and Casey, we are so sorry for your loss. great guy .
- ROB TAYLOR, on
December 31, 2025
Maggie and Family, we are so sorry to hear of Bert's passing. Such a nice tribute celebrating his life. May he rest in peace.
- Kelly Davis , on
January 1, 2026
Maggie and Casey,
We're so very sorry for the loss of Bert. He was like the Mayor of our street and would always walk up and down and chat for a while with everyone. I was already missing that since he'd been in TPR, but knowing he will only visit in spirit now is such a loss. We had the best times when the kids were all younger, between the backyard fires and the occasional games night (which were always hilarious) we were so lucky. We will all miss him so much but we are happy to know he is no longer suffering and is back with Mika. We just hope you both will take comfort in all the wonderful memories. xoxo
- Paul and Marjorie Harvey, on
January 9, 2026
Please accept our Condolences for your loss .We both had the pleasure working with Bert at Barrick Gold . RIP Buddy
- Carol & Gerry Roy, on
January 12, 2026
So sorry to hear of Gary's passing. Gary was a friend of my Brother Brett, and lived directly across the street, I knew his brother Ken, and the family. We offer our prayers, and deepest condolences to the family🙏
Rod and Lorraine McNaueal
- Rod McNaueal, on
January 14, 2026