Jim Rhea

RHEA, Jim, a man who never missed an opportunity to reel in a good time or tune up a laugh, embarked on his final journey from this world on February 25, 2024, at the age of 79. Born in Woodstock, Ontario, on January 27, 1945, Jim was a lifelong resident of the town, and his spirit has become as much a part of the local scenery as the lush, green forests and the clear, blue lakes he so loved. Jim, known for his infectious smile and a hearty laugh that could echo through the valleys of Woodstock, left us as he lived—surrounded by the town and the people he adored. A backyard mechanic by trade, he could fix anything from a sputtering engine to a sullen mood—often using the same tool: a well-timed dad joke. His hands were rarely clean, but his heart was always pure gold.

Linda, his beloved partner who predeceased him in 2011, often joked that cars were his first love, but everyone knew that Jim's true passion was his family. Together, they raised a vibrant family tree that included an ensemble of Melodie, Mike (Sherri), Kevin (Tracy), Joanne, David (Janice), Christopher (Maggie), Jason, Karl, Jamie (Sonya), and Darren. His son James, who left the stage too early in 2003, and his siblings Alphonse, Joseph, Frank, and Tommy, who have since taken their final bows, surely greeted him with open arms. Jim also leaves behind his siblings Delores, Donna, Diane, Doug, David, Bobby, and Ronnie, who will no doubt miss his larger-than-life presence at family gatherings. His many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the lucky audience to his Dad jokes and life lessons, will carry his legacy of laughter and love. They, along with his brothers and sisters-in-law, will continue to recount tales of Jim's escapades, keeping his memory alive and kicking—much like one of his stubborn old engines that refused to quit. A man of the outdoors,

Jim could often be found with a fishing rod in one hand, a campfire glass of whisky in the other, or in his bestie’s backyard. Family reunions were his specialty, where he would hold court with stories of his latest camping mishap or car rescue. His philosophy, "live life to the fullest," were the words he tried to live by. Whether he was under the hood of a car or under the stars, Jim embraced every moment with gusto. Jim's words of wisdom will be sorely missed, but his teachings are evident in the lives of those he touched. He knew that the best way to keep your balance in life was to keep moving, and that's exactly what he did until the very end. In a world often too serious,

Jim was a reminder that a good chuckle could do wonders. So, as we say goodbye to Jim Rhea, let's remember to keep our fishing lines tight, our campfires bright, and our hearts open to the joy of a good laugh. After all, that's what Jim would have wanted. And somewhere, out there, he's probably chuckling at the thought of us all reading this, and prepping his next zinger.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 2 pm – 4 pm to celebrate Jim’s life at Brock & Visser Funeral Home, 845 Devonshire Ave, Woodstock (519-539-0004).

In honour of Jim, donations may be made to Operation Sharing.