Obituary of James 'Jim' Laevens

LAEVENS: James 'Jim' - A lifelong resident of Dover Township, Jim Laevens passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at the age of 85. Born in Dover Township, Jim was the son of the late Gustaf and Marguerite (Deshoemaker) Laevens. Beloved husband of 61 years to Claudia Laevens (nee Reaume). Loving father of Janice McGregor (Ron) of Dover Township and Anita Wilbur (Terry Polyak) of Chatham. Proud grandfather of Rhonda Verleye, Jason McGregor (Melissa), Candice Bezaire (Adam), Nicholas McGregor and Wesley Wilbur. Great-grandfather of Justis, Jaidyn, Julian, Leeland, Brayden, Kylan, Dean, Emery, Olivia and Hayden. Loving brother of Germaine Pynenbrouck (late Emil) of Chatham and Julius Laevens (late Edna) of Chatham and the late Alice Serruys. Brother-in-law to Maurice Serruys. Jim farmed his entire life in Dover Township and retired from International Harvester after over 32 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and having fun with his friends. Jim was a dedicated member of St. Peter's Catholic Church for over 30 years and a Third Degree Knight of the Knight of Columbus. He was a past member of the Dover Rod and Gun Club, an honourary member of the Dover Kinsmen and a former member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 28 Chatham. Jim will be remembered for the love he had for his family. Family will receive friends at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Friday, August 19, 2016 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Vigil Prayers will be held on Friday at 8:00 p.m. followed by prayers by the Knights of Columbus. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 20, 2016 at St. Peter's on the Thames, 5425 Tecumseh Line, Tilbury with Fr. Peter Amszej as celebrant. Interment to follow at St. Peter's Cemetery. Donations made in memory of James to the Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com