James Lloyd Desjarlais

June 20, 2013

Born in 1956 in Lac La Biche, Alberta. Second to last son of Emile and Helen Desjarlais. It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of James Lloyd Desjarlais at the tender age of 56, but we have great joy knowing that he is rejoicing in Heaven.

The Lord took Jim peacefully from his battle with cancer on Saturday June the 15th at 2:15pm as he lay surrounded by his family at Abbotsford hospital.

James is remembered by his beloved wife Darlene and his four children Michelle (Michael), Jarrett, Davis (Morgan) and Matthew (Catalina). He will be missed deeply by his precious grandbabies, Melody, Lily, Maycee, Myelle, Adele and Oliver. He is also survived by his 3 sisters Christine Barrell (Chris), Rose Desjarlais, and Shirley Ferguson and his 3 brothers Frank Desjarlais (Dawn), George Liddle, and Donald Liddle. His Nieces, nephews and numerous friends will also greatly miss him. James was predeceased by his brothers Gerald Desjarlais and David Liddle We will remember James for his contagious smile, his willingness to help anyone anywhere and his ability to love unconditionally. This made him an exceptional husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

He loved to hunt, fish, and camp and tried to get away to do these favourite things with his family as often as possible, but if time did not allow, James would be indulging in his passions of cooking and entertaining guests in his home.

His time was spent the last few years building his family business Riverside Heating and Plumbing which serviced much of the Lower mainland.

His success came from being a passionate plumber most of his life and working alongside his four children and wife who he knew would one day take over the business and carry his legacy on throughout our beautiful city.

The celebration of James’ life will be held on Monday June 24th at 1pm at North Langley Community Church on 96th avenue in Walnut Grove.

You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.

Messages of Condolence

To Darlene, Michelle,Jarrett, Davis, Matthew and the rest of the Desjarlais Family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you today, Jim was such an amazing man and will me missed. You guys are one of the strongest families I know and you will be able to get through this hard time together. I wished nothing more for us to be with you guys but please know we're here in spirit! Love you guys! Leanne and Sean Renton Xoxo

- Leanne Renton

Darlene & family God loves you & your family & so do we Peace of Christ with you you are amazing Jake Klippenstein

- Jake Klippenstein

A fitting tribute to a very "special" man from family & friends. Ken & I were honoured to show our respect to Jim & his great family at his service & also represent Hartford Woods & Hugh & McKinnon Property Managers. We have known Jim for many years & shared many good laughs when he was here working at the complex & know he has trained his sons well to resume running Riverside Plumbing. We never have any questions of the job done, when Riverside is here. God bless you all. Ken & Helene

- Ken & Helene Olma, Resident Managers, Hartford Woods

To know Jim was to be inspired by the happiness he shared in his chosen path through life. He will be missed Condolences to the family. May you always be comforted by the wonderful memories of a truly devoted family man and a steadfast friend.

- The McGlashan family

Darlene and family: We are so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jim was one of the nicest men I've ever had the privilege of knowing. He was one of the unsung heroes who made our community a better place. So many kids got to play football and baseball in North Langley because of the work Jim did to prepare the fields or help out wherever he could. He did so quietly and reliably and with good heart. I know the boys and Michelle will inherit strength from his character. We will remember him always.

- Frank & Caroline Paulicelli

So very sad to hear about Jim's passing. We were praying for a miracle. Miss seeing him and his smile every day. He was an awesome guy and a pleasure to know. ((hugs))

- Warren / Darla Langeman

We are sorry to hear about the loss of Jim. We only met you both for a few days, but we enjoyed meeting you and seeing both of your smiles. I just read this verse in a book I recently read, hope it may help you through this time. "His soul is in heaven, but his spirit is the part of him that lives on in everyone he left behind." Our prayers are with you.

- Trudy and Richard Tanner

Darlene and family - we are so sorry to hear about Jim's passing, and hope that you & your kids and grandkids are finding strength amongst each other to carry on through this difficult time. It was a pleasure to have known Jim and we always felt lucky to have him as a next door neighbour. He always had a smile on his face, and was willing to lend a helping hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Anne & Marco Longley

- Anne & Marco Longley

Miss Darlene and family. I was so saddened to see that Jim had passed. I met Jim at a coffee house in the basement of a church MANY years ago. We ended up dating almost straight out of high school and I have fond memories of him. At the time, I had a very small child (1yr. old) whos name was also James. I lost him to a motorcycle accident when he was 16 yrs. old when we lived in Florida. Jim was a very kind and special person in so many peoples lives. I am so very happy he had such a beautiful and full live with you. My prayers are with you and your children.

- Laurie Locascio

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