James (Jim) Edward Francis

Beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend, trainer, mentor, joke teller, prankster, spinner of tall tales, charismatic life of the party, rule breaker, troublemaker, fighter, and highly allergic to anyone’s bullshit - James (Jim) Edward Francis passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 30, 2022 at the age of 84 years. Jim was predeceased by his loving wife Sharen Francis. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Wenda (Ken) Niels, son Dev (Glenda) Francis, grandchildren James, Kayla and Amy (Steven) Eklund, Tanner and Megan Francis and his cherished great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Tessa, and Hailee.

Jim was born in Tuxford, Saskatchewan on December 23, 1937 and was the eldest of three children followed by sister Marj and his brother Glen born to Lawrence and Lyla Francis. Dad had many stops in life but landed in Regina where he had many jobs and retired as a heavy equipment operator with the City of Regina.

Dad was active in the Regina sports community, volunteering as an athletic trainer with many sports and teams including: the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the Jr. Regina Rams, the Silver Foxes, the Regina Caps, the Pat Blues and with the annual Luther Invitational Tournament to name a few. Dad made an impression on players and coaches alike, with many still sharing stories of his impact and sense of humour on and off the field. 

Dad stood on the side lines for hours scanning the game, quick to act and always with wise advice on the play, the game and life. Dad received awards for his volunteer efforts, but if you asked him, he enjoyed connecting with young people and took pride in making a difference in the safety of the game and lives of each player. 

Many players and sport connections earned nicknames from Dad and if you got one, you knew he liked you. Some that stuck…Pole Cat - Bob Poley, The Dawg - Rodger Aldag, Mule Breath - Larry Mueller, the Oriental - Norm Fong, just to name a few. Dad had his own nicknames - players called him Fossil in the locker rooms and Sparky was another, earned while he worked with the City of Regina. Those that worked with Jim at the City will know the backstory on that one!

Mom and Dad loved to travel and met many friends along the way – one of their favorite places was Hawaii. After retirement, Mom and Dad spent many summers at the cabin in Missinipi in Northern Saskatchewan fishing on Otter Lake and the Churchill River. They loved to have visitors and Dad often volunteered as a fishing guide for avid fisherman from near and far. Dad travelled with his good friend Gerry Harris and a group of Luther College Students to Holland on a bike tour, where Dad acted as Gerry’s point-man, meeting the crew each night at their destination. 

Jim touched the lives of all who knew him; he will be missed and fondly remembered. Dad, we know that you met Mom in Heaven and the two of you are now forever together. The family would like to send thanks to the staff at the Balcarres Integrated Care Centre, the Lumsden Heritage Home and Shalom, and the Cupar and District Long Term Care Home. Many of you made a difference for Jim over these last few years.

The family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date.