Obituary of James Scandrett

James Herbert Hodgson Scandrett November 27, 1921 - December 14, 2018 Peacefully and surrounded by the love of his family, we announce the passing of our dear father, Jim Scandrett just 18 days after his 97th birthday. Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife and best friend of 64 years, Phyllis (Hanley). He will be greatly missed by his four children Peter (Christina), Barbara Stanton (Warren 2001) Martha and Jane Manning. He was the adored “OPA” of Catherine (Adrian), Robert (Diheen), Jamie, Ellie, and Evan Manning, David (Kim), Heather, Luke (Kenny) Amy (Dave), and Christopher Stanton, Andrea (Neil, Saskia & Oskar Bulstrode). Jim grew up in Toronto and attended Whitney School and Jarvis Collegiate. From the get go, he participated in a variety of different sports which lead to many lifelong friendships. In the class of ‘39 at Ridley College Jim was known as Scandy and recognized as an excellent athlete who quarterbacked the football team, was a playmaker on the hockey team, and a batsman on the cricket team. He toured England playing cricket with the Canadian Colts. Jim was a very active “Old Boy” serving on the Board of Governors, and as a class secretary. He participated in many fund raising efforts for the school. A World War 2 Veteran, Jim came home to join the family firm Hayter and Scandrett Ltd. Together, with his brother Bill they grew the business into a very successful tea and coffee importing company. The firm was known as the leading Canadian importer of quality tea from India (Assam), Ceylon and coffee from Kenya. The brothers were both active Presidents and Past Presidents of The Tea and Coffee Association of Canada. Jim was an avid golfer and lifetime member of The Toronto Golf Club as well as Honorary President. He was a passionate curler at the Toronto Cricket Club. At the B&R he was also Past President and a lifetime charter member. There and at Balmoral, he was an eager and excellent bridge player always on lookout for a game, playing right up until his passing. Jim loved sports on TV. He was an expert armchair quarterback and could call a play before the play. He rarely lost a ‘pool’. An excellent cook, better than all of his children, Jim never saw a “pepper” he liked and he always found reason for ice cream. In 2015 he moved to his comfortable home at the Amica at the Balmoral Club. We gratefully acknowledge and thank the entire staff for their kindness and support. Jimmy never ceased to amaze. His optimism, sense of humour and generosity were part of his everyday life. He gave all of us a wonderful life. Following a private family interment, friends are invited to join the family to celebrate his life at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery Visitation Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, (east gate, north of St. Clair) on Thursday, May 2nd at 1:00 p.m. If desired, donations made in memory of Dad to The Salvation Army or the Canadian Cancer Society would be welcomed. Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.