March 22nd, 1927 - August 31st, 2022
Passed away at Wellington Terrace on August 31st, 2022.
James Merle Loree was born on March 22nd, 1927. He was the fifth of six children born to M. Ernest Loree and C.J. Gladys (Henderson). Dad was the first of his siblings to be born at Groves Hospital in Fergus, Ontario. He is survived by his wife Helen (Crozier) Loree.
He is predeceased by his siblings Frank, Dorothy, Florence, Bill and C. Blair (Bud). He is survived by his sister-in-law Betty Loree and many nieces and nephews.
Dad grew up on the family farm in West Garafraxa and, like many from that time, left home at a young age to work. Dad had a lifelong understanding and fascination with anything mechanical; that interest led to his future working life.
Dad joined the military and was stationed at CFB Shilo, Manitoba and he met Helen Crozier at a dance at Brandon College in Brandon, Manitoba. Jim and Helen were married on March 31st, 1950 at St Paul’s Church and lived in Barrie, Stoney Creek, Hamilton and Winnipeg with their growing family until 1966. Dad retired from the military while living in Winnipeg. Jim and Helen then moved back to the family farm in West Garafraxa.
Jim and Helen eventually retired to Highland Manor in Fergus. Dad greatly enjoyed his years there and we appreciated the kindness and care of everyone who worked at Highland Manor.
Dad was the proud father of seven children: Leslie, Frank, Jim, Stephen, Susan, Kimberley and Robyn. Jim is survived by 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
We, the family, are grateful for the support of our families and our friends. Thank you to the staff at Highland Manor for many years of care. The staff at Groves Hospital were always helpful and kind. Thanks also for the loving care of the Wellington Terrace staff on Apple Valley and Oak Glen neighbourhoods. They lovingly cared for Dad and also for all of us. Thanks to Dr. John Stickney for his many years of care and compassion for Jim and his family.
Visitation will be held at the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home, 280 St. David Street South in Fergus, on Friday, September 9th, 2022 from 7:00 to 9:00pm. A memorial Service will be conducted in the Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, September 10th, 2022 at 11:00 am, followed by a reception upstairs in the Wellington Room. A private interment with family only will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Groves Memorial Hospital in Fergus or to The Wellington Terrace in Fergus.
