JAMES “JIM” BAKER RUNNALLS May 8, 1936 – February 3, 2023 Jim Runnalls passed away peacefully on the family farm surrounded by his loving family following a lengthy battle with cancer. He is survived by his children Kevin (Mari Lee), Steve (Lindsey) and Kathy (Brett); grandchildren William, Joseph, Loren, Samuel, Max, Michael-Anne, Christina, Greg, Scott, Brendan and Kaylen; 12 great-grandchildren; siblings Mona, Darlene, Elva and Morley; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth (Betty) Armstrong, daughter-in-law Katherine Papineau and brothers Gerald and Bob. Born on Manitoulin Island, Jim moved to Sudbury for work in 1956, where he met Mom. In 1961 he purchased a mixed farming operation in Kerns township, and entered the dairy industry in 1974, from which he never retired. Dad was a much-loved school bus driver for Willard Bus lines for nearly 50 years, a devoted congregation member of the United Church, served on Kerns council and was involved in the formation of Kerns fire department. He also volunteered with the Little Claybelt Homesteaders Museum and Kerns Public School and gave his time to many other causes. His beautiful gardens were in dedication to Mom and drew admirers from near and far. Known affectionately as “Grandpa Jim” to many, he will be remembered for his generosity, warmth and sense of humour. He never passed up an opportunity to lend a helping hand. The loss we feel will be shared by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Little Claybelt Homesteader’s Museum (883356 ON-65, New Liskeard, ON P0J 1P0) or the Hilliardton Marsh (952130, ON-569, Hilliardton, ON P0J 1L0). Visitation was held at St. Paul’s United Church in New Liskeard on Friday, February 10, 2023 from 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm with a service that followed on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 2 pm.
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