JAMES "JIM" RYDL beloved husband of Joanne Rydl of Lethbridge passed away at St. Therese on Thursday, June 12, 2014 at the age of 79 years.
James Rydl was born October 24th, 1934 to Anna and Vincent Rydl in Hradec Kr?lov?, Czechoslovakia. Jim led a graceful life in a tumultuous world. He survived diphtheria as a child, World War II and the consequential Russian invasion of his home country. James then became a refugee in Austria before immigrating to Canada with his mother, father and his brother Paul Rydl in 1951. He made his way west to work in Kipp, Alberta to work in the sugar beet fields. He also worked in the collieries in Blairmore, Alberta. Jim became a licensed auto body mechanic, met Joanne and fell in love, married in August 1957. Three children followed: Philip (May 1958) married to Kari, Karen (Jan. 1960) married to Gord Davis and Michael (Jan 1962) married to Mary. Jim loved being a Dad and taught his values to another generation. A proud moment in his life was achieving Canadian Citizenship in 1971. Jim valued education and continued his to get a Canadian GED and his professional designation as an insurance adjuster from which he retired in January 1996. James volunteered as a Rotarian, a Cub Scout Leader and achieved Grand Knight in Lethbridge Knights of Columbus Council 1490. Jim's love for his family was a great joy in his life as the grandchildren started to arrive: James (Anne) Way, Heather Rydl, Jason (Lindsay) Rydl, Patrick Way, John (Robyn) Rydl, Sean Rydl, Karli Rydl, Graeme Rydl and Grace Rydl. Jim was also so proud that he almost reached 80 years old and became a great grandpa to Jameson Van Way. James was predeceased by his father Vincence, his mother Anna and his brother Milan. He has left many nieces, nephews and friends to mourn.
Relatives and Friends are invited to Prayer Services at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB on Sunday, June 15, 2014 at 7:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. BASIL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604-13th Street North, Lethbridge on Monday, June 16, 2014 at 10:30 A.M. with Father Roque Pereira, Celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to C.N.I.B. 410 Stafford Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 2L2, "Talking Books"