For Posterity's Sake         

A Royal Canadian Navy Historical Project

In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

EAKINS, James Warner - at Lord Lansdowne, Ottawa, on Saturday, March 28, 2009, in Ottawa, in his 91st year. Born 11 February 1919 in Port Arthur, ON. Predeceased by brother Robert (Sybil) and sister Ruth (Bert). Loving husband of 63 years to Shirley (Hill) and father to Peter (Deborah), Patsy, Andrew (Wendy), and John (Geri). Cherished grandfather to 8 grandchildren: Michael, Jeffrey and Heather Eakins; Kyle, Alexandra, and Grace Eakins; Matthew and Graeme Gaetz. Loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. Warner graduated from Saint Andrew's College (1937) and the University of Toronto (Civil Engineering, 1941), and served in WWII with the Navy (Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reser ve). Following a career with the Foundation Company his work evolved into being a Manufacturers' Agent. He found great satisfaction in procuring the 'right' products for his customers. Warner met Shirley Hill at U of T in 1937, and they married on November 3, 1945. Warner always appreciated Shirley's loving, caring support for him and their 4 children. Their journey took them from Northern Quebec, to Lachine, followed by thirty plus years in Pointe Claire, QC. In 1991, shortly after retirement, Shirley and Warner moved to Ottawa. Warner's personal motto 'think of others' was ingrained in all aspects of his daily living. He was a committed volunteer, including driving seniors to doctors appointments and making regular visits to Granite Ridge. His gentleness, caring, thoughtful and generous nature touched many. In 2004 he was awarded the Eva James Award for volunteers by the Wester n Ottawa Carleton Resource Centre. A prolific communicator, he believed not only in sharing his beliefs and values, but also in sharing notes and articles that he thought would be of interest to the recipient. An avid chronicler of all events throughout his life, his collection of photo albums is legendary. Warner was a keen sailor, ice skater, cross-country skier, cyclist and his love for the outdoors nurtured his strong respect for the Creator. His Christian upbringing and active involvement with the Anglican Church was the foundation of his strong sense of spirituality. We are saddened at the passing of this true gentle man; an individual blessed with integrity, love for his family, keen wit, engaging personality, and sense of humour. Warner had a thirst for knowledge, new experiences, and lived by his credo 'how to do it better'. We are fortunate in having such a man as a husband, father, grandfather, relative and friend. He will be deeply missed. Friends are invited to visit at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street, on Sunday, April 5 from 2 - 4 p.m. and 7 9 p.m. The service of celebration will be held at the Chapel on Monday, April 6, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Warner has requested contributions be made to the United Way or the Salvation Army. We would like to thank the staff at The Lord Lansdowne and Bayshore Home Health for their compassionate care Warner received during his final days. (Globe and Mail 03 Apr 2009)