James (Jim) Leeson
On Saturday, April 4, 2015, James Merrill Leeson, 71, passed away peacefully with family at his side at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre.
James (Jim) was born in Fort Frances on May 6, 1943, and spent his life living in the Atikokan area, finally settling on Crystal Lake with his beloved family. Jim was a strong, hardworking man who worked at Atikokan Forest Products for 45 years where he retired as the mill’s meticulous machinist.
Jim loved to be out in his boat, fishing. He also enjoyed hunting. Jim loved playing guitar and singing – so much so this is how his adoring daughter learned her ABC’s, and how his close friends and family will remember him. Jim loved listening to his music LOUD and was known to never let a song finish. He especially had a love for The King, Elvis Presley.
Jim was content puttering around the house, tinkering with machines, or precisely cleaning his toys. Jim especially looked forward to his weekly card night with his wife Suzanne and Betty and Ken Leitner. In his younger years, Jim spent time travelling to Emo to drive his stock car and watch the races. This in turn developed into a lifelong passion with NASCAR; Jim was a devoted fan, particularly of Dale Earnhart Sr. In addition to his Sunday race, Jim enjoyed watching old westerns, football, boxing, curling and emphatically followed the weather.
Jim will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 35 years, Suzanne, three children Ricky Leeson, Shelley Campbell (Dave), and Gary Gouliquer (Pam); grandchildren Ashland and Alexa Campbell, Aiden, Teagan, Terryn and Gavin Gouliquer; siblings Carol Leeson, Pat (Don) Thorson, Sharon (Steve) Leeson, Merelene (Brian) Leeson, Laura Leeson, and Robin (Ted) Ireland. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Merrell and Arvella Leeson, and his sister Beverly Leeson.
A celebration of Jim’s life was held at Quetico North, Friday, April 10. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be sent to Atikokan General Hospital.
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