Obituary of Dr. Herbert James SANDHAM

September 30, 1932 - Lethbridge, Alberta           
January 9, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta    

On Saturday, January 9, 2021, Dr. H. James Sandham, passed away after a lengthy illness. 

Known to most people, other than his students, as Jim, he was born in Lethbridge, AB, and grew up on his family's farm in Spring Coulee.  After graduating from nearby Magrath High School he achieved a DDS from University of Alberta, and a MSc. and PhD., from the University of Manitoba. 

Jim practiced dentistry first as a Captain in the Canadian Army and then in private practice in Dryden, ON. Jim held teaching and research positions at the University of Manitoba and University of Alabama, Birmingham. For many years, he was a Professor and the Head of Microbiology at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of  Toronto. As a world renowned scientist, Jim lectured and taught around the world.

Over his life, Jim mentored countless people, amongst this group, his greatest influences can be seen in his belief in human rights, fairness, equality, education, hard work, public health, prevention, and the importance of science.

Jim was supported by two lengthy marriages, Joyce Bowman 1955- 1999 div., and Emma Gregg whom he married in1999 and was with him in his final days. He will be missed by the many lives he touched and his large extended family. In accordance with his wishes, Jim has been cremated.

Due to present restrictions of Covid-19, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Bow-Crest Long Term Care, and also Dr. Heaton and Dr. Taylor in Calgary, who under extraordinary circumstances, cared for Jim in his last days.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, Administrative Office, 10531 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton AB T5H 4K1.  Tel: (1-866) 950-5465, www.alzheimer.ab.ca, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Jim’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Jim Sandham, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.