February 27, 2022
James (Jim) McRobert Blackburn of Nanaimo, passed away Peacefully February 27, with family by his side at the age of 97. Jim, whose parents emigrated to Nanaimo in 1920, was born in Nanaimo, and the son of a Nanaimo coal miner.
After his time in the navy in WW2,, he returned to Nanaimo to work in the post office until his retirement. He enjoyed playing bagpipes in the Nanaimo Pipe Band.
After retirement, he and his wife, Eva, spent many years in their motorhome traveling across Canada and the U.S. As a long-time member, Jim volunteered many hours working with friends at the Royal Canadian Legion. He led a long, active and rich life enjoying his family, friends, golf, fishing and puttering in the garden.
Papa will be remembered for his kind manner, work ethic, sense of humor, generosity and corny jokes.
He was predeceased by his wife, Eva and leaves two sons, Tom (Diane), Jerry (Nora), and four grandchildren, Rob (Mary), Nikki (AI), Ryan (Claire), Lindsey (Ryan) and great grandchildren; Maddy, Grace, Connor, Eva, Ewan, Stella, Tanner and Maggie. Jim also leaves many friends throughout Nanaimo, including Obie, Joe, Ab and Bob.
Our sincere thanks to Dr. Allan Kaban, Jim's doctor for many years, Dr. Bruce Senini and the other health care professionals for their care. His quality of life was enriched by the staff of Kiwanis Village and Chartwell Malaspina Care Residence.
The fine staff of the NRGH Emergency Department, the 4th Floor and Palliative Care Unit were instrumental in making Dad's last days peaceful and dignified.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the 256 Royal Canadian Legion 1630 E Wellington Rd., Nanaimo from 1:00-4:00 pm. Everyone must present their Vaccine Passport.