Obituary of James Doran Miles, KC

December 31, 1942 - Calgary, Alberta

January 9, 2025 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James “Jimmy” Miles, at the age of 82 years, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. Jimmy passed away peacefully at the Rockyview General Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife Helen and his children Jennifer (Dan Fitzgerald), David (Renee deLint-Miles); and his grandchildren Adam, Anna and Liam Fitzgerald, Shaw and Tyler Miles; as well as his sister Marvin (Mouse) Miles.

Jimmy was the last baby born in Calgary on December 31, 1942, to Margaret and Harold Miles. He grew up in “the house on the hill” in the country which overlooked the Glenmore Reservoir. He attended Strathcona Boy’s School on Riverdale Avenue. After completing high school, Jimmy attended the University of Montana before earning his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Calgary. In 1965, he married Helen McRoberts and together they moved to Vancouver, where Jimmy attended law school at UBC. After returning to Calgary, Jimmy articled to Mr. Justice Blair Mason at Mason Lamarsh Kryczka and was called to the bar in 1970. He remained with the firm, which later became Miles Davison LLP, and served as a partner for over 40 years, building a distinguished legal career, focussing on ski defence law.

Hockey was a big part of Jimmy’s early years. He learned to skate below his house on Glenmore Dam. He was also a passionate skier, having started at a young age. Jimmy's love for the sport evolved into a leadership role in the ski racing community. He became the chairman of Alberta Alpine, and later, the chairman of Alpine Canada Alpin, as well as being on the board of ASDA, the Association of Ski Defense Attorneys. Through his involvement, Jimmy formed lifelong friendships and attended several World Cup races, Alpine World Championships and Olympics. His commitment to the sport and athletes left a lasting impact on the ski racing community.

As a native Calgarian, Jimmy was very community minded. He volunteered at the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede and was a board member of Theatre Calgary.

Jimmy’s favourite time of year was fall, the hunting season. He loved nothing more than a day out with his dogs, chasing pheasants and retiring to the Patricia Hotel. Jimmy loved planning almost as much as the event itself. As the infamous leader of “Agony Tours”, Jimmy organized our many hiking, biking and ski adventures.

Jimmy had charisma, he was known for his warmth, charm, and quick wit. A great guy in every sense, he had a magnetic personality that drew people to him. His natural ability to make everyone feel heard and valued set him apart. Friends, colleagues, and family often turned to him for advice, knowing they could count on his thoughtful insights and steady guidance. But above all else, Jimmy treasured his friendships, he loved his friends and was a good friend to many.

Jimmy’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, creating countless memories on family trips to New Zealand, Hawaii, summers at the cabin in Windermere and on the slopes at Panorama. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, delighting in watching them play sports and celebrating their accomplishments with pride.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare team at the Chinook Care Centre for their compassionate care. Jimmy fought a tough battle and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Jimmy's Life will be held in May.

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

In living memory of Jimmy Miles, 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.