Park: Frederick James “Jim”, Dec. 17, 1942 – Oct.12, 2020

Frederick James Park (Jim) was born on December 17, 1942, to Mary Ellen Park in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Jim left us on October 12, 2020, after his brief battle with cancer.

Jim spent his childhood in Lavinia, Shoal Lake and Decker, Manitoba. He was an average active boy riding his bike and was full of mischief! And usually had a sidekick – his cousin Mel Creyke. Growing up, the mischief continued (of course) and in his teen years, enjoyed a shot or three of Vodka.

Once he entered the work world, he became quite fond of a beautiful blond at a local diner. Jim found his love with Shirley Sokolan over a piece of cherry pie. On November 16, 1963, Jim and Shirley were married at the Knox United Church in Rossburn, Manitoba. Soon after, James Alexander was born in March of 1964. Then Richard Dale arrived in April of 1965. In February 1967, Brian William Nelson was the last boy born and in November 1976, the family was complete when Pamela Marie arrived.

Throughout Jim’s working years they included Thompson Mine, then Manco (Manitoba Dairy). Jim decided to move the family to Alberta and joined the Lupuliak farm, then on to the Wright farm. After this, he then planted roots with Chester on the Neilson farm. This is where he dedicated 38 years. During these years, a close relationship was built between Chester and Kay’s family, and Jim and Shirley’s family. To Jim, Chester was a leader, his mentor.

Jim enjoyed hunting, hockey, fishing and playing cards. This usually involved a bit of vodka cheer!

Jim is predeceased by his mother Mary Ellen Park, numerous aunts, uncles and close friends, and sadly, Chester Neilson.

Jim leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Shirley; sons James, Richard, Brian (Annette) and daughter Pamela (Robert); grandchildren Mathew (Genevieve), Tyson (Brandy), Mitchell (Jasmine), Amanda, Terrance, Brianna, Austin and Lorne; 11 great-grandchildren; godchild Tracey MacTavish; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Graveside service was held on October 20 at 1 p.m. with Rev. Helen Reed officiating. Eulogist was Annette Park. Honorary urnbearers were all of Jim’s family, many friends and neighbors who cared and shared in his life. Hymns were Amazing Grace and Old Rugged Cross.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation (Bed Fund), Box 150, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Funeral arrangements in care of MacLean’s Funeral Home, Oyen, Alberta.