Obituary of James WERSTUIK

December 25, 1931 – February 17, 2021

It is with heart-filled sadness that we share the loss of our dear husband, father and babo (grandfather), James Werstuik of Calgary, AB, who passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at the age of 89 years.

Jim was born at Fort Qu’Appelle, SK, where his mother passed away two days later.  He was raised by nuns until he was two years old, then reunited with his dad and five brothers and sisters on the homestead in Kisbey, SK.  Jim remained on the farm until he was 18, when he joined the rigs and worked for Cambridge Drilling for over fifteen years, travelling throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan.  During this time, he met his future wife Dorothy in Bassano, AB, and a year later they were married.  They shared a wonderful life together for sixty-four years, during which they were blessed with two children who were the pride of Jim’s life.

Jim and Dorothy moved to Calgary in 1964 where Jim started his thirty-year career with Western Rock Bit.  They settled in Westgate, where Jim became the best neighbour and friend to the entire community.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Dorothy, son Don (Mary) Werstuik, daughter Debbie (Brent) Hockin, two granddaughters, Jessica Hockin and Sabrina Werstuik; and three brothers-in-law, Larry (Eleanor) Bryan, Gordon (Karin) Bryan, and Don Bryan.

A Celebration of James’ Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Monday, July 5, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Calgary. 

Dorothy and family wish to extend their heartfelt appreciation to all the staff at Cedars Villa Extendicare (Maple) for the love and care given to Jim over the past three years.

In living memory of James Werstuik, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.