It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden, but peaceful passing of Jim Hey at his home in Bellevue, AB on March 28, 2016. He was 71 years of age.
Jim’s roots started in England where his grandparents immigrated in 1886. When his grandpa passed away, Jim’s dad, Colin took over the family homestead in McCreary, Manitoba. Jim’s mother, Annie, added Ukrainian to Jim’s heritage. Jim later moved to Esterhazy and Gerald, Saskatchewan, then, in 1972, to Elkford, BC where he began his long career at Fording Coal. He started in the Mine Services Department, and retired in 2004 as a highly skilled and respected crane operator. After his retirement from the mine, he and his wife, Bev relocated to Bellevue, AB. Jim dabbled at a couple of other “paid” jobs, but realized that his home was where his heart was. He always had his “next” project lined up for himself, puttering away at them and accomplishing so much. He took great care in building, renovating and maintaining their home. Jim will always be remembered as a quiet, thoughtful, “gentle”man by those who knew him, and he will be missed and always loved by many.
Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his beloved wife, Bev Hey of Bellevue, AB; his devoted children, Jayson (Nola) Mellett of Sparwood, BC, Elizabeth (Bruce Sawatsky) Hey of Elkford, BC, Christeen (Rob) McKenzie of Calgary, AB, Carmen (Marvin) Funk of Vanderhoof, BC and Angie (Brad) Kelly of Vanderhoof, BC; his cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Maria, Julia, Ty, Brooke, Skyla, Levi and Chase; his treasured great grandchildren, Lyric and Grace; his sisters, Eileen (Don) Colpitts of Bentwood Bay, BC and Pauline (Bill) Burns of Manitoba; as well as his extended family and the countless friends he made throughout his life.
He was predeceased by his parents, Annie and Colin Hey; his son, James “Jimmy” Hey; and his sister, Margaret.
A private service will be held. Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation (207, 542 – 7 St. S., Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1). Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements.
(403) 562-8555