It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Robert James (Jim) Wilson on January 18, 2022. Jim died peacefully in his home in Barrie in the loving care of his long-time companion, Elizabeth Voigt. Jim was pre-deceased by his father, Dr. James Edwin Wilson and mother, Mary Freda Wilson (nee Dickey). He is survived by his daughter Trisha Vaillancourt (Aaron), her mother Martha Fiedler Wilson, and three grandchildren James, Liam and Isla.
Born on August 25, 1944, in Alliston, Ontario, Jim grew up in Barrie and as a young teenager moved to Essa Township. Living in the country created a lifelong passion for the outdoors which included fishing and hunting. This passion was also nurtured by summers spent at Sherwood Forest Camp on Boshkung Lake and assisting his uncle on the family farms near Alliston.
Jim studied Economics at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick before taking over his family farm, Essamere Farms, in Ivy. He later finished his university education at Sir Wilfred Laurier in Kitchener-Waterloo.
Jim had fond memories of his adventures working on the CN railway and trucking for Sears (SLH). He was a farmer and devoted many years as a member of the Essa Agricultural Society. Jim was also an avid skier and skater who worked ski patrol at Horseshoe Valley and Snow Valley.
Jim was a dutiful son who will be remembered for his honesty, storytelling and sense of humour. He was a strong spirit who lived life on his own terms. Anyone who knew Jim well knew his passion for music, particularly country, rock n’ roll and blues. He had a down to earth nature and enjoyed people from many different walks of life which is demonstrated by his eclectic group of lifelong friends. He had a magnetic, charismatic personality that will be dearly missed. Animals can sense a person’s true nature and energy easily and dogs always gravitated immediately to Jim.
Jim will be interred in his family plot at Alliston Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Simcoe Hospice would be appreciated. Our heartfelt thanks go out to Dr. H. Koleski and Bayshore Healthcare for their exemplary attention during his at-home support. Jim was so thankful for the visits and phone calls from his amazing friends throughout his illness and during the pandemic. The fantastic community on Thomson Street also offered great support to him. He never felt alone. The family is anticipating a future celebration of life in the summer.
Online condolences may be made at arbormemorial.ca/adams