TIBBLES, John James Gowan, Ph.D. “Jim, JJ, Doc”
Jim was born on March 16, 1924 in Scarborough Bluffs ON, died June 8, 2024 in Sault Ste. Marie ON. Passed away peacefully of natural causes at the Sault Area Hospital at the age of 100 years with family and Dr. Booth by his side.
Predeceased by his parents Queenie (1970) and Jack (1980) Tibbles. Predeceased by his first wife Margaret (2016), survived by his devoted wife Nancy. Beloved father of Johnnie (Teresa), Richard (Colleen). Respected stepfather of Ed Jondreau (Emily), Mike Jondreau (Carol). Grandfather of Amy (Darryl) Ann (Drew), Jordan (Melissa), Michelle (Chris), Melanie and Cj (Tye). Great grandfather of Brittany, Taylor, Abby, Ava, Oliver, Leilani, Maeve and Logan. Predeceased by his brother Les (LG) and sister Verna Dell (Buddy).
Jim was a great family man. He immensely enjoyed cooking, baking, fishing, traveling and playing card games on many, many occasions. “Dumb game” and “Balls” were often heard if things weren’t quite going his way.
Jim spent his career with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Sea Lamprey Control Centre here in Sault Ste. Marie ON as it’s Director from 1965 until his retirement in 1986 (that’s right, he was retired 38 years and enjoyed them all extensively!!). Jim was an avid boater and charter fisherman for many years. He, Nancy and numerous friends and family operated Tibbles Table which served delicious fish boils and hobo dinners to thousands of enthusiastic foodies and fish lovers.
Jim was a member of Downtown Kiwanis for many years. He was a part of numerous International fisheries boards. He joined the R.C.A.F in 1943 during the Second World War. As a Veteran he was also a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force Association, 432 Wing, Sault Ste. Marie, ON.
His main interests post retirement were travel, photography and the Horticultural Society, including cultivating hundreds of Impatiens plants every year to share with friends. Jim won many awards for photography and horticulture over the years.
Jim was also instrumental in the establishment of boating facilities, mainly marinas, in the Sault and area. He was a dedicated member of the Sault and District Anglers Association for many years.
Many thanks to the staff on 3B at the Sault Area Hospital for their tender care of Jim. Special gratitude to Dr. Fera and Dr. Booth for their advice, comfort and understanding.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton and Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E, 705-759-2522). As per Jim's wishes cremation has taken place. A Celebration of LIfe will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions to the Sault Ste. Marie Soup Kitchen or ARCH (payable online or by cheque) would be appreciated by the family.
Gone but never forgotten.
"At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them."