James Walter “Whitey” Wilkie
01/06/36- 04/08/23
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Jim “Whitey” Wilkie at Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital on Saturday, April 8, 2023. Jim spent an amazing day Friday, sharing memories and treasured moments with those he loved.
Husband and best friend of sixty-three years to Darlene Wilkie (nee Dunford). Devoted father to Jenny-Lynn (Shawn), Janey-Lee (Stewart) and Larry (Anne-Marie). Admired and adored by his grandchildren Melissa (Mark), Troy (Courtney), Chad (Mckenzie), Emilee, Andrew (Aimee), and Malorie (Devin). Treasured Great-Grandfather and “Pop” to Katrina, Jordan, Colton, Kaydence, Kyah, Kolby, and Parker. Whitey will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews, and his dearest friends.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Melville and Doris Wilkie. He was a loving brother to Robert Wilkie (Noreen) (predeceased), Carol Williams (Bob), Diane Brown (Bill), and brother-in-law to Leona Whiting (Jim), (predeceased) and Keith Dunford (Jeannette). Whitey was a devoted friend and a loving surrogate father and grandfather to so many, too many to name here, but you all know who you are. Whitey’s greatest joy was being around those he loved, whether at an arena, ball diamond, golf course, lacrosse field or in the audience for a recital. He was always up for a “roadie” to a sporting event, family vacation or with Kevin (“Bax”) and Rob (“Boobie”) to catch a minor league ball game in the US and to do some shopping at the Dollar General, Wally World and Target… to Rob’s delight! He was instrumental in bringing Junior Lacrosse back to Orillia. He took great pride in sharing his love of sports.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the OSMH staff in the emergency room, IMRS-1, IMRS-2, and S1, for their excellent care and compassion. Thank you to the specialists who have helped Jim throughout his health challenges over the years. A very special thank you to Doctor Peter Deimling and Doctor Ralph Gilbert- your passion, dedication and commitment to your profession gave us the gift of time, and we can never thank you enough.
Visitation will be held at the Mundell Funeral Home,79 West St. N., Orillia on Monday April 10, 2023 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM. Then on Tuesday April 11, 2023 from 12 noon until time of Service at 1 PM at Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club, 1151 Hurlwood Lane, Severn. Cremation to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (Head & Neck Department) or Toronto General Hospital.