James J. (Jim) Ursu
January 27th, 2019
James Joseph Ursu (Jim), dearly beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 27, 2019 at 84 years of age.
Jim was predeceased by his parents Peter and Aspasia Ursu; brothers Edward and Ron; parents-in-law Charles and Anna Massier; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law June and Henry LePage, Joan and Maurice LePage.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 44 years, Janet (Jan) Ursu (nee Massier); brothers Gabe (Jeanne) Ursu and Roy Ursu; sister-in-law Tilly Ursu; brother-in-law Gary Massier (Christine Tell); numerous nieces and nephews and a very special cousin Connie Banilevic who has been his dear friend and mentor over the years.
Jim was born in the Kayville district, Saskatchewan and took his elementary schooling there. When Jim reported for his first day of school and the teacher asked what grade he was in, Connie piped up that Jim was in Grade 2. Jim always maintained that Connie got him through school at a faster than normal pace.
After completing Grade 8, Jim moved to Regina working in various jobs before joining the Royal Bank in September 1957. He worked for the Bank for 38 years in several positions but mainly in the Real Estate Resources Department in the Saskatchewan District Office. Jim was responsible for project management of new bank buildings, renovations, new furnishings, security and all aspects of bank buildings. He decided to complete his high school education and accomplished this by taking night classes, while working his full time job, and was able to attain his Grade 12 diploma. Jim has also always been known for being immaculate in dress and appearance as well as very efficient when taking on any task.
Jim was very much a community-minded person and, in this respect, joined the new Suburban Optimist Club of Regina which eventually disbanded, however he then joined the well established Optimist Club of Regina, and from there went on to hold several leadership positions such as Club President, District Secretary Treasurer, District Governor and International Vice President which was a two year stint. During those two years, Jim and Jan made 22 trips throughout Canada and the United States fulfilling his Optimist duties. It was also a time when they travelled to many Optimist meetings and functions with their dear friends, Glenn and Betty Jewison. Jim was awarded a Life Time membership in recognition of his commitment to the organization and the community.
Jim has recently been faced with major health issues and has been working with the Allan Blair Cancer Clinic and both the Pasqua and General Hospitals. In all cases he has received excellent, compassionate care from all the doctors, nurses and other staff and wishes to express his heartfelt thanks to all of them. Jim also wishes to thank his family physician, Dr. M. Moola who has always been there for him during times of illness.
Flowers are most graciously declined. Please consider donations to The Lung Association of Saskatchewan or to a charity of choice.
At Jim’s request there will be no funeral. A private interment with family and friends will be held at a later date.
May you rest in peace, Jim.
Messages:
My condolences on your loss.
We are so sorry to learn of Jim's passing, our thoughts and prayers are with you Jan.
Jan so sorry for your loss. Marie
Jan and family, we are sad to learn of Jim passing. There have been many fond memories over the years.
Jan - my sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Jan, I’m sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. You always spoke of Jim with such fondness and love and I know those special memories will keep him forever in your heart.
Oh my dear Jan our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. The fun and laughter that you shared with me, the encouragement and direction you provided were greatly appreciated. Bless Jim, bless you.
So sorry to read about Jim. He was a terrific Optimist mentor and a great travel companion.
To the entire Ursu family; I was fortunate to have worked together with Jim during his time with RBC, especially at the processing center. We designed the facility and Jim attended to its careful upkeep and operation. The 360 staff loved working there partly due to Jim's attention to the building and every staff's need.
Aunt Jan I wish I could be in Saskatchewan to see you. Thinking of you. You and uncle Jim were always kind and encouraging. The "big galoot" will always remember uncle Jim. My thoughts are with you. Xo
Sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I always enjoyed our conversations, and the many branch redecorating projects he looked after at branches I was at ... Thinking of you
Jan we are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We so enjoyed our conversations whileJim had his barbering needs met. He will be missed.
Dear Jan, Our Sincere Condolences on the passing of your beloved Jim. Hugs Marilyn and Malcolm
Jan and Family: We have all lost a very special man. My heart is heavy but I am remembering many of the good times...even when I was young and my big brother Jim would come to my rescue. You two were a perfect match and enjoyed many special events for your memory book. I have to mention his classy attire, perfect hair and oh that smile, only Jim! Love Marge Haddad (Kenville)
Dear Jan....we were saddened to hear of Jim's passing. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Hugs to you...Mike and Maureen
Am adding this message of condolence very belatedly as I just learned of Jim's passing today in doing some research about my mother under her previous married name of Ursu. Mother Dolores Maria Haberstock kkwas married to Jim for approximately 7 years in the 1950's and although their marriage didn't last she told me briefly about Jim and had some humorous stories about the days long in person invites to each family member to their wedding and having a drink with each as per tradition. As well about Jim's meticulous requisite starched shirts. Apparently it was the bane of mothers laundry to do list. She had only good things to say about Aspacia and Pete and other family members. The fact that their relationship didn't work ultimately paved the way for mothers next husband and my existence. Funny how things work out... The best to your family and my sincere if belated condolences on your loss of Jim. Would have loved to have met him, especially for his perspective on mother in her early years. R.I.P. Jim Sincerely Mrs Kimberley Latam