He is lovingly remembered by his children: Karen (Bill) Blenner-Hassett, John (Mila) Ratke, and Mark (Judy) Ratke; grandchildren: Kyle (Nicky) Fuhrmann, Ryan (Jackie) Fuhrmann, Shauna (Craig) Johns, Jaclyn Hartwick, Robert Ratke, Chad (Alieta) Ratke, Nikki (Brandon) Iwaasa, Braeli (Darren) Bevers, Jaime (Hayes) Van Den Elsen, Laycee (Micah) Rogers and Rylen Ratke; and his 17 great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his sisters, Stena Meheden and Ruth Meheden.

Jim was born on May 15, 1934 on the family farm near Lethbridge. Jim and Doris were married for 65 years and raised their family on the farm at Spring Coulee. They retired to Lethbridge in 2001.

Jim had the kindest heart, a warm smile, a wonderful sense of humor and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was an honest, hard-working, humble man who lead his family by example and earned their utmost respect.

Family was the most important thing to Jim. He was so proud of them and had a special bond with each and every one. Whether he was farming, camping, boating, or playing a game of cards, Jim was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends.

Special thanks to Dr. Christina Walton and to the nursing staff on 3B at CRH for their kind and compassionate care.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at McKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating.