FENTIN, James (Jim) Gordon – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (“Jim”) Gordon Fentin on Monday, December 23rd at the age of 73. Left to mourn his passing are his wife Judy and son Josh (Jenn) as well as his grandpuppy Louie.
Jim was born in Newton, Massachusetts in 1951. Throughout his childhood, he and his family lived in various parts of the United States. He attended Northwestern University and subsequently The University of Michigan (Ann Arbor).
In 1982, Jim met Judy York on a train while they were travelling to Athens, Greece. The two quickly realized their shared passions for travel, exploring new cultures and trying new cuisines and they were married in 1983. In 1985, they welcomed their son Josh and together they lived in Toronto for the first few years of Josh’s life. They later moved to London, Ontario where they made their forever home and developed many wonderful friendships – however they never lost their love for travel and exploration. Jim also always made time to keep in touch with the many friends he had developed through his travels over the years.
Dear brother of Gary (Susan), Tom (Peggy), Hildy and Faye (Tony). Brother-in-law of Joan O’Gorman and Toni Fentin (wife of the late Rick Fentin). Jim will also be lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by his parents Leon and Shirley Fentin, parents-in-law George and Marguerite York, brother-in-law John O’Gorman and brother Rick Fentin.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring of 2025 and details will be announced closer to the date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario or the London and Area Food Bank Inc.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the doctors and nurses at LHSC for the kindness shown during Jim’s time in their care.
Jim was able to dictate his final thoughts using an E-tran communication board:
“My name is Jim Fentin
I am an explorer from a family of explorers
We love mountains, oceans, ideas, cities, music and art
Yeah, I went to Woodstock – so what?
In 1982, I met Judy the love of my life riding the train to Athens, Greece
In 1983, we got married
In 1985, Josh was born
We brought Josh with us on our adventures
It was often tough
I was not perfect, but it was worth it
I want to thank my friends and colleagues for their love and support and many laughs at my silly jokes and my cynicism
I want to thank my wife Judy and our son Josh and his wife Jenn for their love and support
And of course, my amazing brothers and sisters and their spouses and children for their love and support
Finally, I want to thank the doctors and nurses and helpers at LHSC for their help during this difficult time
More to do, but time to explore new realms
Enjoy your lives
Love, Jim”