The name James means ‘helpful friend’, and no truer words could describe James Johnson Hobbs, cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who passed away May 24, 2017 at the Espanola Nursing Home at the age of 76. Jim was born in Massey on July 15th, 1940, the fourth of 11 children born to James and Isabel Hobbs. The large family was busy but they enjoyed time together at Whiskey Lake, a place that would remain near and dear to Jim’s heart for the rest of his life….a source of many cherished memories. Jim married the love of his life, Elaine Burns, in 1961, and the newlyweds moved to Sudbury, where Jim was employed as a miner. The following year, Jim started working at Farquhar’s Dairy and the newlyweds moved back to Massey, where they started their family. In 1973, Jim returned to mining and built the family home on Birch Lake Road where the family still gathers today. As well as being a constant source of support and love in the lives of his children and grandchildren, Jim enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and trips to camp at Whiskey Lake, A loving father and grandfather, he was always concerned with everyone else’s welfare, the first to lend a hand whenever needed. He faced his illness with dignity, a positive attitude and strength, with the loving support of his devoted wife and family. He was our rock and will be greatly missed. Jim was predeceased by his parents, James and Isabel Hobbs, siblings Velma Jane, Bob and Jenny. Left to love and remember him always are his siblings Isabel, Fran, Hilda, Jack, Harry, Bess and Clifford; his children Charlene Pellarin (Ed), Linda Demers (Len), Janice Martell (Don) and Jim Hobbs Jr. (Rose-Marie); grandchildren Kathryn, Emily, Jenna, Andrea, Tim, Matt, Ashley, Morgan, Matthew, Jessica, Kaleigh, Reilly, Mackenzie, Ashley, Megan, and Tyler (from heaven); great-grandchildren Logan, Griffin, Briella, Zhoe, Zahra, and Laila.
Our family would like to thank the exceptional staff at Espanola Nursing Home, and PSWs Traci, Krystal, Tina and his very special caregiver Gaetanne.
A celebration of Jim’s life will take place at the Massey Arena on Saturday, June 3rd at 11 a.m with internment following at Grandview Cemetery. The family invites everyone to return to the Massey Arena for lunch and a time of visiting.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you all take the time to honour Jim by doing a kind
deed or lending a helping hand to someone in need.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Elliot Lake Funeral Chapel & Cremation Centre (705-848-9250). Online condolences to the Hobbs family may be made at www.elliotlakefuneralchapel.com