James Frederick Wilson

James Frederick was born in Kelowna, BC on October 2, 1937 to Elva and Mervyn. The family moved to Vancouver and Fred became very active with the boxing community, where he fought and later coached, helping neighborhood youngsters a chance to learn this life improving skill. He was also building and racing cars, fast ones, clocking the top speed record in 1956 with a speed of 129.9 MPH. He spent the summer of 1959 prospecting for gold in the Yukon, and was successful at staking an asbestos claim instead. His fortunes improved with a chance meeting of a lovely and beautiful girl, Jennifer, who became his betrothed in 1964 and they began a 56-year adventure together.

The early years found them in Haney, BC and the family grew to four with the arrival of two daughters, Juli and Joanne. Jim spent many early mornings driving milk collection trucks for Dairlyland, and in his spare time, volunteering with the Vancouver Police Department Dog Squad as quarry, trainer and rehoming the dogs who failed to make the cut. A business opportunity in logistics and storage working closely with the fruit industry allowed the family to move to Oliver, BC. Continuing to follow his passion for helping the community, Jim found time to join BC Search and Rescue, Civilian Air Search and Rescue Association, Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, and still managed to put on the gloves to help youth with their boxing skills.

During retirement, Jim and Jennifer travelled the world, spent many nights camping throughout their favorite places in BC, and Jim re-visited his thrill for speed and motorcycle riding with countless hours spent on the roads of BC and celebrated his 83^rd birthday with a ride along the shores of Skaha Lake.

Fred/Jim had a kind soul, and was generous with his free time to worthy causes. He was close to his family, and was considered “one of the good guys” by his large circle of friends from every chapter of his life.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to do so may make donations in memory of Jim to a food bank of your choice or joining in his support of the Vancouver Police K9 Squad by donating to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Due to current Covid guidelines, there will not be a memorial service.

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home,

Phone: 250-542-4333

Condolences may be offered at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com