Jim was born March 15, 1938 in Macklin, Saskatchewan, the only son of Reg and Lena Partington. In 1945, when Jim was seven years old, the family moved to Francois Lake and it was then that he started school. Jim wasn't necessarily interested in his studies, nor did he do well. During those years, he had an active role in helping run the "old fashioned" farm, which never did have any motorized equipment. Jim continued school only for as long as he had to, and then went to work for J.T. Nicholson.
He met Karen and they were married in 1962. They made Decker Lake their first home and between 1964 and 1971, their three children, Brenda, Laurel, and Kevin were born. Throughout the 1960's and 70's, Jim spent much of his free time fishing and camping, always including his children. It was during this time he decided to become a truck driver and worked many years for Jeffrey's Standard Oil. When that closed down, he did construction work. These jobs gave him a good income to raise his family.
The family moved to their new home on Centre Street in Burns Lake in 1979. During their time there, as often happens, circumstances changed. The children were growing up, and Jim's marital status had changed. It was time to start something new.
In 1988, Action Cab became a familiar name to all in the area, and with his friendly disposition and his sense of humor, it was more pure enjoyment than a job to him. It wasn't until sustaining injuries from an unfortunate incident while driving his cab, that Jim was forced to sell his business in 1994. Once again, that didn't deter him. He decided to go into the house rental business and was successful again.
Because of his love of the outdoors and fishing, he bought a beautiful piece of property on Tchesinkut Lake. He had his dream house built and that became his home for 12 years. Many happy and memorable times were spent there by all his family and many friends. However, due to his health failing and the need to be closer to a hospital, he moved to town into one of his own rental houses. It wasn't long before he was hospitalized for the final time. We know that many, if not all of you, visited with Jim either at home or in hospital, and for that we are most grateful, and we know how much Jim loved to have company.
Jim's life was complete when he became a grandfather. He adored and was so very proud of each of his five grandchildren and their accomplishments. He was so full of pride when he would tell you that his first grandchild, Brittanny, was graduating in June. He was equally proud of Amanda and her horsemanship, and would spend hours watching her ride her horse during lessons and in competition. There were many more hours spent in hockey arenas all over the province to watch his three grandsons, Kurt, Justin, and Rylan, play hockey. Between periods was a highlight for Jim at the concession stand. He was Papa Jim to countless young people, and his generosity to buy treats for all who wanted or needed them brought him great joy. Those arenas will never be the same, and many young people will miss Papa Jim. His generosity didn't stop there. Ask any worker at the hospital or medical clinic, and they will confirm Jim's bigheartedness by keeping them in ice cream bars and doughnuts, or whatever he felt they might like. During a conversation with Jim, a staff member happened to mention that she liked eggs. You guessed it, the very next day he handed her a dozen eggs.
Jim will always be fondly remembered as a great father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother, uncle and friend.
A man full of generosity, kindness, and humor.