Obituary of Jim (James) Crawford

Jim (James) Crawford, 82, of Chatham, Ontario, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2022 at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance after a long brave battle with Parkinson’s disease.  He was a beloved husband and shared a lifetime of memories with his wife of 63 years, Gladys (nee Dobrowney).  Jim was a dear father to Dale (Ann) Crawford, Diane Lichach, and Kelly (Jack) Schram.  He leaves behind five grandchildren David Crawford (Melissa), Lisa (Dave) Medeiros, Amy (Greg) Elvikis, Brian Lichach, and Taylor (Trish) Schram  as well as two great grandchildren Adaline and Dante. Jim was the son of the late Stewart and Lola Crawford.  He is pre-deceased by one brother, Tom (Loreen), and survived by Bill, Dan and Tim and brother-in-law, Henry (Vaida) Dobrowney.  He will be missed by nieces and nephews. 

Jim had a successful career at Union Gas starting in Chatham as Clerk, Meter Repair, Serviceman, and retired as Customer Service Manager.  He worked at various branches including Simcoe, Waterloo, Halton, Hamilton and retired in Chatham after 37 years. 

Jim loved sports.  He was inducted into the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame for baseball in 2003.  He played hockey for the Burlington Old Timers and loved fishing but his love for golf was his passion.  Jim and Gladys spent many winters playing all the golf courses in Myrtle Beach and were members of Blenheim Golf Course for 27 years. 

A special thank you to home care PSW’s Rick, Ronnalee, Monica and Patrick as well as the hospital staff and his various doctors.  We are grateful for all you did for Jim’s care. 

The family held a private viewing and cremation has taken place. Per Jim’s request, no service will occur. 

In remembrance, please make donations to the Parkinson’s Society Southwestern Ontario or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

Jim will continue to be “Forever in our Hearts “.

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street,
Chatham
519 351 2040