“Grandad” Jim Matejka passed away at the Elk Valley Hospital on Saturday, October 8, 2011 with family at his bedside. Jim was born in Czechoslovakia on February 14, 1927.
Jim is lovingly survived by sons Ken (Wilma) and Dave (Karen), his daughter Janice (Glen), 10 grandchildren: Gary, Michael, Joy, Matthew, Drake, Tannis, Christina, Derek, Jamie and Marc, 7 great grandchildren: Chace, Devin, Savannah, Paige, Heidi, Acacia and Nolan, his sisters Mary, Donna, Ella and Helen, and his very special friend Marlene. He was predeceased by his parents Tony and Christina, his sister Vera, and his wife Loreen.
Outgoing and community-minded, Jim was a member of both the Elks and Lions Clubs, the Legion, and the Knights of Columbus. He also helped to organize the startup of the Hosmer Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed spending time outdoors; fishing, camping, gardening and traveling. Most of all, Jim loved visiting with friends, and everyone was his friend! He held a special place in his heart for children everywhere and they loved him in return. Jim will be dearly missed by his family and friends, and the residents of the Tom Uphill Manor.
Prayers were held at the Holy Family Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 12th. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, October 13th with Father Bart van Roijen, Celebrant. Inurnment followed at St. Margaret’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children’s Reading Program at the Fernie Heritage Library, P.O. Box 448, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0. Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.