Obituary of James Ferguson Munro

October 5, 1934 – March 3, 2024

James Ferguson Munro peacefully entered into rest March 3^rd 2024 at his home farm in Sonya with his loving wife, Ruth, at his side. James is predeceased by his sisters; Mary (Earl Foster), Bonnie (Jack Graham), and survived by his sister Judi (Robert Butterworth). Lovingly surrounded by his children; Brenda (Denis Leroux), Margaret (Urs Kressibucher), James (Jolene), and Christine (Jason van Tol). Also survived by his grandchildren; Mathieu, Noah, Sean (Samantha), Erik (Stacey), Ursula, Natasha, Isaac, Hannah, Luke, Nathan, and great grandchild Emmett, and many nieces and nephews.

In his youth Jim enjoyed pole-vaulting, ice-skating-barrel jumping, hockey, baseball as a member of the Sonya Sleigh Riders, church sing songs, and his many friends at euchre parties and countless dances. Born in the family farm house, Jim came from the era where farming included horse drawn power but kept up with the times and learned how to not only drive tractors but fix them as well. Like most farmers he would build, fix or repair anything used on the farm or he would at least try to. He always enjoyed wood working and this would come back to him in his retirement.

Jim worked at General Motors for 41.8 years starting at the age of 16 while still running the farm. Ruth was his full-time farm helper and together they raised a variety of crops, animals and of course four children. Jim took up wood carving in his retirement years and became a talented carver. He created thousands of various styles and caricatures in the 30+ years of carving which are now enjoyed locally, across Canada and aboard. He loved getting together with fellow carvers weekly at the Senior Centre in Port Perry, sharing ideas and patterns and a story or two.

Known as the Preacher at GM due to his love of storytelling, it never mattered where you were he always knew someone nearby or had a story about a person or place. His recall of events and stories remained to the end and he could always be sure to retell more than a few favourite tales.

Jim was blessed to have a strong wife and family who helped him remain at home. Jim Jr. was key in all the many tasks farming offers up and kept things going for his parents. We are very thankful for the care and assistance from Grace, Kayla and PSW staff from Durham Community Care who along with much family support made it possible for Jim to remain at home to the end. He never wanted to leave the farm and that wish was fulfilled.

He will be missed by his many grandchildren and was very blessed to have his new great grandson visit one week before he passed. A tough old farmer he was but he always enjoyed his family and friends and will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

The family of James Munro will receive friends at the THORNE FUNERAL HOME, 98 River Street in Sunderland (705-432-2672) on Friday, March 8, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m. A Service to Celebrate his life will be held in the Chapel on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. Interment McNeil Cemetery. Refreshments to follow burial at St. Andrew’s United Church, 10 Church St. N. Sunderland. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Charity of your choice. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.thornefuneralhome.ca