Obituaries | M.G. Daly Funeral Home Ltd. |
| McPherson, James Duncan B.A., B.P.E., M.Ed. C.A.S. |
October 11, 1936 – June 27, 2022 Jim was born & raised in Hamilton, a lifelong Tiger-Cat fan and graduate of McMaster University, and Niagara University. Loyal and loving husband for almost 62 years of Marjory (nee Flatt), proud and loving father of Russell (Norma) and Fiona (Michael Prescott), kind and loving grandfather of Alexander McPherson, step-grandfather to James (Nadia) and Matthew (Angela) Prescott, and great-grandfather of Addison, Elston, Arlen & Samson Prescott. He also leaves behind his well-loved brother Robert “Bob” (Lois), sisters-in-law Susan, Mary (Steve) and Evelyn, eight nieces & nephews, and many cousins in Alberta. Predeceased by brother-in-law Ian Flatt. He was the quintessential family man. he was a dedicated educator, coach (gymnastics and football) and advocate for kids with developmental handicaps. He originated the peer tutoring program (PEOPEL) at Port Colborne HS, wrote and illustrated the Project Method for Teaching Gymnastics, earned a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Developmental Disabilities from the University of Vermont, and was well recognized in the Physical Education Community for teaching excellence including six summers teaching at the Ontario Athletic Leadership Camp at Lake Couchiching. A self-taught musician and lifelong music lover, Jim played guitar and banjo in the Welland Mandolin Orchestra and was a founding member of the folk group “McPherson’s Rant”. During his retirement, he took up his beloved banjo with fierce dedication and when he and Marj moved permanently to their summer residence on Papineau Lake he found wonderful new friends with whom to share his love of music. He initiated and encouraged the ‘Music in the Library’ program in Hastings Highlands Public Library and was a strong supporter of the Student Bursary Program for the Hastings Highlands Township. Always interested in politics at all levels, in 1974, he ran as NDP candidate for the Welland-Thorold federal seat. A believer in the principles of informed democracy, in 2016 he set out to address the ‘democratic deficit’ in Hastings Highlands. With the help of similarly minded friends, equality of vote value was put in place for the 2018 election with the commencement of the ‘at large’ system, one of his proudest moments. Jim’s battle with bone cancer ended peacefully with Marj by his side, at Madawaska Valley Hospice in Barry’s Bay, a facility which we are lucky to have in our community, filled with kind and dedicated staff and volunteers. The family will hold a Celebration of Jim’s long, productive, and happy life on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at Memories Tea Room and Bakery (33057 Hwy 62N., Maynooth) from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. In case of rain, the Hastings Highlands Community Centre (33011 Hwy 62N., Maynooth). Also, in Welland, on Saturday, August 27th, place, and time to be announced. Remembrances in his honour may be made to HHPL Student Bursary Program, North Hastings Public Library Building Fund, Bancroft, your local hospice, or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to M.G. Daly Funeral Home, Maynooth. (613) 338-3259 (Condolence messages may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or visit www.mgdalyfuneralhome.com).
|