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EDEN, JAMES RODNEY

JUNE 10, 1941 ~ OCTOBER 26, 2015

Jim left this world in his own home, surrounded by family after a brave fight against cancer. Throughout his illness he maintained his sense of humour and the grace that defined him. Jim was born in Summerland, BC on June 10, 1941 to Hilda and Harvey Eden. He was the middle child, alongside his sister Donna (Claire), and his brother Brian (Jane). He was raised on an orchard, and maintained his love of farming and the land.

Jim attended BCIT at 17 years of age and became a journeyman iron worker. He loved to build bridges and felt that they were monments. He worked on countless bridges throughout his career, but most notable was the original Port Mann Bridge. Jim worked throughout Western Canada on many projects and was well respected amongst his peers. He was incredibly proud to have been one of the iron workers to construct the Sydney Opera House in Australia. Jim, a true romantic, actually placed a time capsule in one of the beams prior to erecting it.

Jim married his wife Faye in Summerland in 1965, and

began a love story that lasted 50 years. They had three

children; James (Cindy), Wylie (Sandi), and Sarah. Jim was the most devoted and loving Poppa to his three

grandchildren; Alyssa, Liam, and Rhys. Sadly he will miss the birth of his fourth grandchild expected to arrive in January, but he was pleased when his Daughter-in-law Sandi would let him feel kicks from the baby.

Jim owned and operated the Texaco station in Golden, BC for six years. He was naturally mechanical, and could fix anything. When they sold the service station, Jim and Faye moved to Winfield where they fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning his own orchard. His farm was his paradise here on earth. He worked long hard hours on the orchard, and spent 13 years as a regular vendor at the Kelowna Farmer’s

Market. He felt that if you love what you do, you would never work a day in your life.

Jim was a beloved Uncle to many special Nieces and

Nephews. His Brother-in-law Hank (Dianne), and

Sisters-in-law Doreen, Gail, Grace and Jackie were always dear to him. Jim had a twinkle in his eye, and people were attracted to his character. He collected friends easily, and many are mourning his loss with us.

Our family would like to extend a special thank you to the Staff, Physicians and Nurses (our friends) on 4b at KGH. We would also like to thank Dr. Mike Penney, our Family, and our many special friends and neighbours for their support and kindness.

There will be a celebration of Jim’s life on November the 8th, 2:30pm at The Winfield United Church.

His life was gentle, and the elements

So mixed in him that Nature might stand up

And say to all the world, “This was a man."

-William Shakespeare -



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