Obituary of James Anthony McVea

July 29, 1937 – Edmonton, Alberta

February 27, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Jim McVea, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away on Wednesday, February 27, 2024, in Calgary, AB at the age of 91 years.

Jim was born in Edmonton, AB, on July 29, 1932, to Michael and Marguerite O’Reilly. Jim’s father passed away when he was quite young, and he was later adopted by Aidan McVea after his mother remarried.

He completed his schooling in Ladysmith, BC, graduating from Ladysmith High School. After moving back to Alberta, he worked in the oilfield industry and went on to become a purchasing agent for Canadian Phoenix (later IPSCO), a steel and pipe company. In 1973, Jim and his young family were transferred to BC where they resided until he was transferred back to Calgary in 1984. He remained in the steel business until his retirement.

In his early years, he loved the outdoors, camping, and skiing being favourite pastimes. His interests were diverse, from learning to fly a plane to hunting and playing various sports. He was a genuine handyman, able to fix almost any issue that could come up as a homeowner. He also enjoyed working with wood, building furniture, and creating various inventions. Later in life, he was drawn to fly fishing and enjoyed the intricacy of fly creation just as much as fishing itself.

Jim is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary McVea, two children, Patrick and David McVea; and two granddaughters, Mariella and Aida McVea. Jim is also survived by his younger brother Aidan McVea.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church (10827 – 24th Street S.W., Calgary, AB) on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall at the church.

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

In living memory of John McVea, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.