Obituary of James Riach

Passed away peacefully on August 6th at St. Michael's Hospital at the age of 86, surrounded by loving family at his bedside. Beloved husband of Cecilia, father to Mary (Peter), John (Gabriele/Claudia) and Margaret. Loving grandfather to Lisa-Britta, Nils, Lars and Klaas, Ian, Natalie, Heather and great-grandfather to Jessica. In his personal life, James will be remembered first and foremost for being a kind and sacrificing husband, father and opa. His dedication to his family and friends will be sorely missed. He was a role model to us all. Born into poverty in Partick, Scotland on November 16th, 1924 he was part of the generation of Scotsmen, who immigrated to Canada after World War II and cherished dearly all the opportunities this country has provided him. He accomplished his dreams and later did all he could to help others fulfil their dreams. Despite his success he remained true to his humble beginnings and lived a life of moderation and humility. Professionally, Jimmy will be remembered as a prominent member of the Toronto construction scene going back to the 1950s with his work for G & A on the Toronto Subway and later as President of Clifford Masonry and Reconstruction in projects as different as the Bank of Montreal, Toronto Police Headquarters, Bank of Nova Scotia, and his renovation work at Union Station, the Old City Hall and Queen's Park. He was widely recognized as an expert in his field and was also valued for his achievements in the areas of apprenticeship development and construction safety. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 2 -4 and 7 - 9 p.m on Monday, August 8, 2011. A service will be held in the chapel on August 9th at 1 o'clock. Donations to the St. Michael's Hospital or the United Way would be appreciated.