James Ronald Osborne
February 11th, 2022
James Ronald “Jim” Osborne Aka “The produce guy” and “Popeye” passed suddenly at home Friday Feb. 11, 2022 aged 59 years. Predeceased by his mother Joyce in 1996 whom he missed so much. He is survived by his wife Michele, daughter Rachel (Aaron), son Keon, brother John (Karen), niece Lily, sister Leslie, father Ron (Elfi), extended family along with many friends.
Jim was born in Vancouver in 1962 and spent his entire life in Maple Ridge where he worked at Overwaitea/Save On Foods for the past 43 years. He had an incredible work ethic and for many years simultaneously ran a bread delivery service. He also worked for years as a projectionist at the Pitt Meadows and Mission Cinemas.
Jim was an amazing athlete and adventurer. He parachuted, scuba dived and bungee jumped. To learn how to sail he helped crew a small sailboat from Maui to Victoria. He competed in many races, biathlons and marathons including Honolulu in 1989 where he met his future wife and again in 1990 when they both completed the race. He rode his bicycle to San Francisco and was an amazing water-skier, once slaloming the length of the Pitt River on New Year's Day. He lost count of how many times he did the Grouse Grind and was known by his family and friends to play a mean game of cribbage.
Jim struggled with bi-polar disorder from his late teens and tried many forms of therapy to find peace and happiness. Although at times he may have appeared unapproachable, deep down he was a caring and sensitive soul. Jim wasn’t big on ceremonies, his ashes will be scattered at sea, the place where he felt most alive and at peace. Online condolences may be left at www.myalternatives.ca
In lieu of flowers or donations his family asks that you reach out to anyone in your life who may be struggling and offer them your time and love. Never underestimate the power of a hug.
Messages:
Deepest condolences to the Osborne family. Jim truly was an adventurer, doing things that the rest of us only talked about doing. Jim was never afraid to take a risk be it in business or personal endeavors. I worked alongside Jim for 40yrs at Overwaitea both of us starting while still in high school. A good portion of our early years working the graveyard shift together where I really got to know Jim and what took priority in his life. Jim had great work ethic and was always up for a good debate on whatever you wanted to talk about but family was always front and center in his life. Jim always spoke highly of his parents and brother and was always excited to talk about his own family and their accomplishments growing up as we got older. Was lucky enough to sit down with Jim a couple weeks ago to catch up and family was what was on his mind of course, as well as recalling some of the old night crew stories. Could always count on Jim for a good laugh or story and will miss running into him at the store or around town, he was a great friend.
Michelle, John and Ron and your families. I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Jim was such a huge part of my life growing up, road hockey, painting goalie masks, boating and just enjoying life. My fondest childhood memories are from times spent with Jim, John, Ron and Joyce, and Snoopy. I am glad I was able to catch up with Jim and Michelle a few years back at RCH when Jim broke his hip. Time melted away immediately and it was like we were back in the 70's shooting tennis balls in the driveway, keeping Ron from getting sleep for nightshift! Michelle, when I did get a chance to speak with Jim whether on the phone or at Save On, you and the kids were always the number one thing he would talk about, and about how fortunate he felt to have you all in his life. That's how I feel about Jim... I was fortunate to have him in my life, and he will always be remembered as an amazing friend! Love to you all, Jamie and Tiffany
Dear Michele, Ron, Leslie and the entire family I wanted to send my thoughts to you. I knew Jimmy from early days in Haney - Mount Crescent thru to Grade 12 at MRSS (at some point he graduated to being called Jim). I remember him well – quiet, gentle, slight smile, head slightly down, standing tall with arms slightly rigid by his side, his feet rustling…I remember this all the way back to Grade one. In high school his feet rustled less – but his shy smile, his open eyes, his kind heart and head tilt remained. I wanted you to know, that the picture chosen of him....standing tall, smiling, on the water he loved so much – is the same as I remember him...he is just older. I am not sure why this is – but for some reason one remembers certain people in one’s life –even if you have not seen them for years. I remember Jim as clear as it was yesterday...which means he had impact. I am glad that Jimmy had this. I wanted to let you know this. I remember him - and I am thankful that I do. With hugs to all of you. Hard times, I know. Take care of you and yours. Tanja Dixon-Warren