Obituary of Constance "Connie" Louise JAMES

Constance Louise (Connie Lou) James of Calgary passed away tragically at the age of 61 years on Friday, November 18, 2013. Connie was born January 15, 1952 in Maple Creek SK, the third of four children, to Clarence Melville and Stella James (nee Patsula). Connie and her siblings Neil, Myrna, and Melville (Jim) grew up on the family farm near Piapot, SK. She attended school in Thompkins and Gull Lake, SK. After high school Connie Lou attended the University of Saskatoon, graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce in Computer Science -with distinction- in 1973. Her budding career took her to work in Toronto, Ontario from 1973 - 1976. Connie moved back west to work in Calgary as an IT project manager in the oil and gas industry from 1976 to 2000. Her love of cats saw her sharing her home with one or more feline friends at any one time. Connie had an interest in flying. She took lessons and was successful in becoming a licensed pilot. She enjoyed gardening and had a special spot in her heart for roses. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Connie was the type of person that would tackle DIY projects both in her own home and helping others through Habitat for Humanity. In recent years, Connie took up the challenge and frustration of the game of golf. She played courses in and around Calgary, near her condo in Whitefish, Montana and various locations in British Columbia and Hawaii. Connie Lou is survived by one niece, Lynda Gwilliam (David) and their children, and cousins from the James and Patsula families. Connie is predeceased by brother Neil; father Mel James; mother Stella James; brother Jim, sister-in-law Esther and their children Brandy Lea, Raymond, and Gregory; and sister Myrna Lynn James. Further announcements will follow at a later date. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Humane Society, 4455 - 110th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2C 2T7, telephone 403-205-4455, donate@calgaryhumane.ca. HERITAGE FUNERAL SERVICES "Calgary Crematorium Chapel" Telephone: (403) 299-0111