It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Eugene Byer of Williams Lake, B.C. on Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at the age of 72. Jim passed away peacefully with his family by his side.
James Eugene Byer was born October 20, 1943 in Princeton, B.C. to Benjamin and Gertrude Byer.
Jim is predeceased by his parents Ben and Gertrude, brothers Ralph, Allen and sister Mary. Leaving behind his brother Frank (Roberta) and brother Jack (Mavis) and numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Jim is lovingly remembered by his high school sweetheart and wife of 52 years Jean. They enjoyed many adventures together in our beautiful province of B.C. Jim has worked at numerous mines as well as in the logging industry. He was a caring and compassionate person. Jim and Jean accumulated many friends - the door was always open at the Byer household. Volunteering was also a passion for Jim, he has been involved with the Stampede Association for years. He enjoyed his time spent in the office visiting with people and seeing the changes to the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds. Being a life time member was something he was proud of.
Jim will be sadly missed by his wife Jean and their three children; Todd (JayLyn), Leanne (Brent), Lorina, their grandchildren; Graham, Michael, and Victoria Byer, Colton (Kia), Wyatt and Blaine Manuel, Adriana, Emma Markus and William Sundt, their great-grandchildren Cade and Kaisley Manuel. Jim also leaves behind a lifetime of friends.
He loved watching his grandchildren competing in hockey and rodeo. He leaves behind the numerous extended kids that called him “Grandpa Jim” whether it was at the hockey rink or rodeo grounds. Family was his passion.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the nurses and the staff at the Deni House, CMH and to Dr. Engelbrecht for making Jims last days comfortable.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, May 9th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 1:00 pm, with a celebration of life at the Sacred Heart Hall to follow.
If you would like to make a donation in support of transplant, please call the VGH and UBC Hospital Foundation at 604-875-4676 or 1-877-875-4676. Please be sure to direct your donation to the Transplant Research Foundation of BC Fund.
To make a gift by mail, send a cheque made out to:
VGH and UBC Hospital Foundation, 90 - 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9. Please indicate that the donation is for the Transplant Research Foundation of BC Fund in the memo line.
To make a gift online please visit trfbc.org.
LaPrairie’s Funeral Services entrusted with arrangements.
250-398-9100