Suddenly, at Oakcrossing Retirement Living, London, in the early hours of Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at the age of 83, after a recent cancer diagnosis and cardiac event. Predeceased by his loving wife Carole (Gray) McVicar (July 2019), who he missed each and every day. Survived by his sons Scott and Darcy and loved always by his grandchildren Emma and Ethan, all of London. Predeceased by his parents Albert “Mac” and Clara (McEwen) McVicar, his older brother Rob and sister Delores (Trevail).
Jim resided at Oak Crossing Retirement in London, was formerly of Chatham and spent many, many summers at family cottages in Grand Bend. He had a long career in London and Chatham as a teacher and then a public school principal at McKeough P.S. and finally retiring as the principal at Indian Creek P.S. in Chatham.
Jim and Carole married August 17, 1963. Always supporting each other in every way. Carole’s final years were a journey with Alzheimer’s. Jim was with her always, caring, never complaining and did everything he could to keep her at home as long as possible, until her care become to complex. Jim would sit with Carole all day, every day, until her passing. “Life was never the same without her”
Moving back to London shortly after retirement. Jim wanted to stay busy and continue to meet and talk to people, so his first post “retirement” job was selling wine at the wine shoppe in the former Oakridge Mall until its closing. Next Jim kept busy at Enterprise Car Rental on Oxford Street, West. He was hired to wash cars but more importantly talk to the customers as he drove the shuttle. Jim’s final “retirement” job was at Oakwood Golf Course in Grand Bend for a few summers where he washed and staged golf carts with the crew. Occasionally Jim was a course ranger as well, until he hit one too many speed bumps. This final job also gave him the opportunity to start golfing again. Sometimes for the golf, mostly for the people. Jim and Carole were always up for a good get-to-gether at the cottage.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Oak Crossing for their friendship and care (they have lost their Santa Claus) and everyone who has kept in touch.
Jim’s sons Scott and Darcy are grateful to have never went without, thanks to their parents.
And as Jim would say…
“Life is a gift to you. Be Happy! Have A Great Day!”
Friends are invited to gather at 10:30 AM for an 11 AM memorial service at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, Lucan on Wednesday, March 29th.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Doreen
Dear Scott, Darcey, Emma and Ethan. You were are so loved.
Doreen Coombs
Dear Scott, Darcey, Emma and Ethan. My husband Jim and I became friends when Jim worked at the wine shop. We had parties and great times together. Working with Jim, I’m a better person to have known him. He was the best person you could have ever known. Both you and Carol will be missed, but together now. I just found out of your passing. Thinking of you all. Love Jim and Doreen Coombs
Elayna Beatty
I remember Mr. McVicar as the principal at McKeough. Standing on those marble stairs, boys on the left, girls on the right, Mr. McVicar was the conductor. Under his watchful gaze we waited for the cue to move unto our next class. Everyone moved with order and purpose.
He always smiled at me. And when he smiled, his eyes twinkled with mischief.
I was, and still am, very visual. Numbers and words don’t really mean a lot to me. Mr. McVicar understood that and refused to put me in a special class for those with learning disabilities. I am forever grateful for that wisdom.
Darcy, I have fond memories of you from McDonald’s. You have your father’s smile. May God bless you, your brother and your families.
With much admiration,
~Elayna
Kathy Hibbert
Dear Scott, Darcy and families,
I am so sorry to learn today of the death of your sweet father. I taught with him at McKeough and after we moved to London used to see him at the wine store. We just saw him in February – at the Alz Cabin Fever Reliever -where we caught up every year. He was one of the kindest, most influential people I worked with. The only thing that makes me smile is that he is with Carol again.
Sincerely, Kathy and Bill Hibbert
Jim and Gail Edgar
Scott and Darcy Jim and I remember many good times with your Dad and Mom at Windy Hill. We send our deepest condolences to you and your families in the loss of your father.
Jo-Ann Henderson
How well I remember Jim as he was my principal at both McKeough and Indian Creek. He was considerate, kind and supportive of staff and students. One winter Monday, a beautiful artificial tree appeared in the hall outside the office. Jim had spent hours on the weekend setting it up and fluffing it out to surprise everyone. So typical of his giving nature.
Bev and Diane Easton
Bev and I have such happy memories of the two if you as ourfriends and close neighbours in Chatham. We first met at the home reception after the real reception of the Pollard wedding. Of course Carole and I were Vic grads but as students we were never assigned to same floor at the same time. How well we remember dinner parties in Chatham Grand bend or the 6 of us going out to dinner. through good times and not so good times I will always think of Jim your Dad with a smile on his face. As a grad of McKeough School we were at the 100th anniversary of the school. There he was the principal with a beard to celebrate. At that time beards or facial hair was not in vogue. Many many memories of the gentle gentleman that was Jim and as your Dad and your Mom they raised to wonderful sons. Please know you are in our thoughts. Dad and Mom will be missed.aka BP and Bunkie.( or Bunk)
Chris Bonthron
Scott, Darcy, and family.
Your father… Jim… Mr. McVicar… he was a special man. A person anyone should aspire to emulate. Always smiling. Always engaged and interested those around him. Covered thousands of kilometers along Windy Hill Lane without incident or injury. He was selfless and he was authentic. He will be missed. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Sheri (Dockeray) Claer
Scott, Darcy, Emma and Ethan.
So saddened to hear about the passing of your dad and Grandfather. My sincere condolences. I have many fond memories of both your dad and mom. May all the happy memories help you through this difficult time.
Shirley Cobban
My deepest sympathy to the family. I taught with your Dad at Riverside School in London in the sixties. He was a great co- worker, a true gentleman with a kind spirit. Your parents were a great couple and now they are together again. Cherish the memories. Shirley (MacCallum) Cobban
Mark Pyymaki & Family
Darcy and Scott, I am so sorry for your loss.
Words are not able to express my thoughts for you and your families at this time. I remember your father fondly when we passed each other by and some time up at your cottage. Sending you warm thoughts and prayers during this tough time. Sincerely, Mark
Sean Murch
Scott and Darcy,
I was so sad to hear this. Your dad was one of the kindest, gentlest men I have ever known. I can feel his positive energy, as I think back to many lovely, idyll summer days spent at Windy Hill. I’ve been thinking about you guys a lot this week. Hang in there, and take care of each other.
Sean
Sue and Mark Adams
Scott, we are so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. Keep all the wonderful memories close to your heart and he will always be with you. Please know we are thinking about you and sending our strength, love and hugs to you. XO Sue and Mark Adams
Flavia Hladysh
Jim M. What a wonderful man. So kind, thoughtful, caring, encouraging. A perfect example of a gentleman.
He was so full of life. Loved each and every holiday. I knew I could always count on him to dress up! From Santa to his scary looking Halloween costume. To bunny ears, fun headbands and beads.
I will miss our chats (especially at his door) where I could enjoy the beautiful scents of his room.
Jim, you have left a hole in your Oakcrossing family. It was a pleasure to know you. Love you always, Flavia
Carole and Graham Watson
Scott, Darcy, and family: Graham and I send sincere condolences. We are so sorry for the sudden loss of your wonderful father. Jim was truly a gentleman who appreciated and loved his family and friends. Your Mom would share many Grand Bend stories and the great times she shared with your Dad. They were a wonderful couple who enriched the lives of those who knew them. We feel blessed to have known Jim. May your memories of a great life bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Erin Haskett
Scott, Darcy, Emma and Ethan,
My condolences to you all. Jim was a wonderful man who had time for so many people. Our family included.
He made Windy Hill a special place and his kindness and generosity spread far beyond after those years at the lake.
I am sorry for your loss.
Erin
Lon Beatty
Mr McVicar was one of a kind; a man I looked up to as an example. He was principal of McKeough while I was there, and I had nothing but respect for him. Darcy and Scott, your Dad will be missed. ❤️ My condolences.
Peggy Topping
To a dear friend of our family, Darcy
We are so sorry for your loss. Meeting your family so many years ago was a delight. Take care. Ken and Peggy
Gary Bryant
Jim was one of the neighbourhood kids who grew up on South London’s Langarth Street in the 1940s. It’s good to know he had such an impactful life, and is fondly remembered by so many.
Gary Bryant
JEROME GARTNER
Scott and Family,
Sorry for your loss.
Elizabeth Walker
Jim will be truly missed. I worked with Jim in his very early teaching career. He was always such a great gentleman and very positive to students and staff. Our condolences to family Sincerely Eliz Walker
Jim & Audrey Walker
Scott, Darcy and Family
Our sincere condolences to you all. We knew Jim at Oakcrossing and had some memorable times together. He was everyone’s friend and would do anything for anyone. Thoughts and prayers ….. Audrey & Jim
Craig and Colleen Koehler
Scott and Darcy,
Jim was greatly loved as a principal and more importantly,as a friend among many people from all walks of life. Your Mom too was an awesome person and friend. So sorry for your loss. May your wonderful memories give you strength!
Joanne Sinclair
Sincere condolences to Scott and Darcy and family. May you find peace and comfort within your memories.
Jen Haskett
Dear Scott, Darcy, Emma and Ethan,
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of your dad and grandfather. He was such a friendly person with a warm smile; he showed such kindness and genuine interest in others, and has been a good friend to our family for many years. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Jacquie Rahbek
My sincere sympathy to the McVicar family.
I lived down the hall from Jim at Oakcrossing. He was a fine gentleman and will be missed by all of us on 4th floor. Keeping you in my prayers during this difficult time.
Jacquie
Dave Henderson
I taught under Jim for ten years when he was a principal at McKeough P. S. In Chatham. He was a great leader who was always fair and kind. Jim was very approachable to not only the staff but the children as well. When we celebrated our centennial at the school Jim had everything organized so well that the days went on without a hitch.
My deepest condolences to you Scott and Darcy, your Dad will be missed.
Doris Loft
The Oakcrossing residents have just lost a good friend. Jim was always ready to take part in the social activities. He would lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it. On special occasions, such as Easter or Halloween, he would appear in a suitable costume and give us all a good laugh. I will especially remember our bid euchre games.
My sincere sympathy to all the family.
VIRGINIA POLOWICK
DEAR SCOTT AND DARCY AND FAMILY,
SENDING SINCERE CONDOLENCES ON THE LOSS OF YOUR DAD, JIM. MAY THE MANY FOND MEMORIES OF EXPERIENCES SHARED THROUGH THE YEARS GIVE YOU STRENGTH AND COMFORT. KNOWING MOM AND DAD ARE NOW REUNITED IN SPIRIT MUST BRING A SENSE OF PEACE TO YOU….THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES JIM AND CAROLE!
Bill Putherbough
My condolences to all of Jim’s family
We had Many Many Wonderful Get Togethers with Carole & Jim & what was known as The Hill Group
RIP Dear friend
Luc Vanthuyne
Scott and Darcy:
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Tom Telfer
Sending sincere condolences at this sad time. I had many chats and laughs with Jim.
He was a true gentleman and always had a special smile.
Scott Flynn
I remember Mr. McVicar well and I am sorry to hear of his passing, he was a fare and honest man. I remember his watch, one day he watched our class and he tested our observation skills by walking past our desk and showing us a glimpse of his watch. Then he asked the class what did you see, I don’t believe anyone had seen what he was talking about, the class gave up. Mr. McVicar told us and once again walked around the class to show us that the face of his watch, instead of numbers it said his name JAMES MCVICAR. Rest in peace fine Sir and my condolences to the family.
Della Quick
Oh my goodness I must say he was the greatest principal I ever had. Sending my deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Julie DeYonker
Scott & Darcy, I am so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Chuck & I shared 25 fun filled years of our lives with your family on Windy Hill. We were best friends with your parents for so long. Many great memories . You guys were always hanging out with my girls & the Kunes kids. He will be missed by many. Prayers & love to all of you.
Joanne Andrews
Dear Scott and Darcy, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I’m grieving with you. Jim and Carole were such special friends of mine. They touched my life and heart. I have so many wonderful memories of our times together and they will always be with me.
Nothing was more important to them than their sons and grandchildren. I wish you peace. With love, Joanne
Holly
Jim. What a wonderful guy. He was the most selfless man I have ever met.
I watched him go out on his neighbours’ birthdays and grab a little something to make their day special when they had no family year after year.
His love of Christmas was my favourite and I loved visiting him in December when he always had his chocolate box open and his suite decorated to a tee. He had a story for every decoration he had out. Christmas won’t be the same when it rolls around without “Santa”
He never missed a happy hour and was so incredibly kind to everyone.
He always looked on the bright side of every situation.
Scott and Darcy I am so very sorry for your loss.
Glenn Phillips
I only met Jim three or four times through a mutual friend but he so easy to talk to and a real gentleman.My condolence s to the family