Oct 07, 1949 - Dec 11, 2024

• James “Jim” Douglas Holmes

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jim on December 11, 2024, in his home after a long illness, surrounded by those he loved. Born in Ottawa to the late Douglas and the late Millie Holmes, he was blessed with wonderful parents, whom he cherished all his life, and a life filled with loving family, friends, and much laughter.

Jim leaves his beloved wife Nicole (Vaillancourt) and his dearest children, Kathryn (David Derousie) and Michael, from his previous marriage to the late Lynda Holmes. Jim was predeceased by his dear brother, Robert.

Jim was also the loving grandfather of Benjamin and Nicholas.  He was deeply fond as well of Nicole’s children, François Kane (Marie-Noëlle) and Dominique Kane, and of their children, Noah, Mélodie, Adrien and Sasha.

Jim will also be remembered by his aunt Germaine Moyle and his cousin David Holmes, far away in Australia but with whom he shared many good memories.

Jim’s in-laws thought the world of Jim and often referred to him affectionately as “notre gentil Anglais”. And he was indeed a kind and gentle man.  Those who knew him – as a friend, as a colleague, or as both – would invariably use the same words to describe Jim’s character:  “a true gentleman.”  He was also known for his wonderful sense of humour.  It had a mischievous side – Jim loved a good prank or tease – but his jests were always leavened by his personal warmth and the affection for others that came so naturally to him.  This gentleness of character, along with his wit, intelligence, and strong work ethic, made him a popular and widely respected figure at the Canadian International Development Agency, where he worked for most of his career.

Jim will be dearly missed, most of all by his companion in life, Nicole, and his family, but also by the many others who were fortunate to know him. All will find some comfort in the memory of Jim’s smile and of times spent with him, moments that were almost always marked by fun and laughter. What an honour to have had him in our lives.

The family would like to express its gratitude to Dr. Fawzi Mankal, his dedicated family doctor, Dr. Marie-France Savard, his devoted oncologist, and his compassionate and committed palliative care specialist, Dr. Melini Gupta, who made it possible for Jim to stay at home until the very end. The family is deeply appreciative as well for the kind, generous, and professional team at Ontario Health at Home and Carefor.

There will be no funeral at Jim’s request. A small family celebration of Jim’s life will take place sometime in the New Year.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honour to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Salvation Army.