Obituary of James Robert Weed

September 2, 1936 – Rockglen, Saskatchewan

January 28, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of James Robert Weed on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at the age of 87 years, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Jim was born on September 2, 1936, in Rockglen, SK, the oldest child of Claire and Norma, with sisters Jean and Patricia. When Jim was young, the family moved to the High River area and later settled in Calgary. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Calgary. Jim attended the University of Alberta in Edmonton for post secondary education, graduating with a Bachelor of Science and Education in 1959.  He continued his education at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, obtaining a Master of Arts in 1971. Jim’s career was spent with the Calgary Catholic School Board and Rockyview School Division.

Jim’s undying passion and commitment for education was unparalleled and encompassed his entire life. During his career, which spanned 36 years, he was a champion for youth, touched countless lives, and inspired generations through his trust, love, patience, and generosity. He was dedicated beyond words and loved being a principal. He strongly believed his role as principal enabled him to impact the direction of education.

Jim thrived in retirement. He and Rita travelled the world with child-like enthusiasm. When home, he continued to share his wisdom as a presenter for the Franklin Covey Company, a role model and speaker for the prostate cancer awareness mobile unit, and countless conversations with friends and neighbours, young and old, as they passed by his house.

He was an extraordinary leader in every aspect of his life. There wasn’t a challenge that he couldn’t overcome with innovation and perseverance. He would often say “a good leader surrounds themselves with good people”. And that he did, with many close friends.

However, Jim would say his greatest achievement and blessing was his family. He took great pride in his family. He spent hours listening, supporting, and encouraging his children and grandchildren to become successful individuals and follow their dreams.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife Rita, his children, Terry (Wendy), Sherri, Rodney (Charlene), and Bradley (Jennifer); stepchildren, Brigitte, Jacqueline (Tim), and Paul; his grandchildren, Tanner, Rachael, Konnor, Kyra, Michael, Eireann, Logan, Taylor, Danielle, Andrea, Megan, Jodi, Rene, and Natalie; his great-grandchildren, Jasper, Benjamin, and Jackson; as well as his sisters, Jean and Patricia.

Rita and family would like to thank the loving and dedicated staff at the Bethany Riverview Long Term Care Centre for their patience and kindness while caring for Jim.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Corpus Christi Catholic Church (Corner of 4th Street & Northmount Drive N.W., Calgary, AB) on Monday, February 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Graveside Services to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall at the Church. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Weed’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Avenue West, 16th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1K8, www.alzheimer.ca/en or to the Canadian Prostate Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Rd. N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Telephone: (403) 205-3966, www.cancer.ca/en.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Jim’s family here.

In living memory of James “Jim” Weed, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.

Click  to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch James (Jim) Weed's Funeral Mass