Obituary of James Vorhees Drumheller

Jim Drumheller passed away peacefully on November 25 with his beloved companion Meri Carney by his side. He was predeceased by his first wife, Melva English, and his second wife, Jocelyn Wilkinson. Jim was born in High River in 1917; grew up on a ranch and remained a rancher at heart throughout his life. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, Jim worked for many years in the oil business. He was a member of the Glencoe Golf and Country Club and enjoyed many years of playing in the Oilmen’s Golf Tournament. He raised his family in Edmonton, and in his middle and later years, lived both in Calgary and on an avocado ranch in Fallbrook, CA. During the last few years of his life, Jim was very involved with his daughter, Leanne, in creating a non-profit retreat centre on a farm near Victoria, BC, and greatly enjoyed spending time there. Always straight-forward and genuine, Jim was the quiet, humble strength of our family. His youthful, open-hearted nature became more radiant as the years went by. He had a wonderful, dry sense of humour and was a good teacher in how to stop and appreciate life. His love for family and friends was profound, and extended into deep compassion and generosity toward those in need. We will continue the Drumheller Family Scholarship Foundation that he and Betty Brook Ferdyn established. Over the years, his Christian faith deepened and finally carried him home. Jim will be deeply missed by his loving companion Meri Carney; sister Betty Brook Ferdyn; son Jim (Lacey Pemberton); daughters, Kathleen, Leanne, and Elizabeth; granddaughter Emma, and many extended family members and friends. We would like to thank the wonderful staff and friends at Staywell Manor and also the staff at Rockyview General Hospital for their caring support. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to your charity of choice. A Private Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2008. All friends and family are welcome to a Reception from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Calgary Golf and Country Club (5900 Elbow Drive SW). Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Jim Drumheller, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 Elbow Drive S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.