Tribute Wall
In Memory of
James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald
1948 - 2021
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Julia Noble posted a condolence
Monday, February 22, 2021
Jim was so kind to me when I was an articling student. What a great teacher and an outstanding lawyer.
My deepest sympathy.
Julia Noble
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Garth Smith lit a candle
Saturday, February 20, 2021
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So many fond memories of Jim. I am an early bird by nature and always got to the office early. I could always count on Jim picking up his office calls around 7:30a.m whenever I had need to call him..I could throw at him any issue concerning an upcoming arb, collective agreement interpretation and would always get sound advice, guidance, which always led me in the right direction.
Jim was masterful at presenting an arbitration, second to none, always came prepared, once a hearing started it was game on and Jim was all business, Jim won cases we had no business winning.
I am thankful for knowing Jim, he was grounded and sincere, treated everyone with respect and kindness, a good man.
Garth Smith
CUPE National
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Mika Imai posted a condolence
Saturday, February 20, 2021
My sincere condolences to Jim’s family. I had the privilege of working with Jim as an articling student and young lawyer. I’m so glad I could learn a bit more about his full life through the stories shared during the memorial. He was a force.
- Mika Imai
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Garth Smith pledged to donate to Hockey Canada Assist Fund
Saturday, February 20, 2021
On behalf of my friend, Jim McDonald.
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Mary Cornish posted a condolence
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Just heard the news of Jim's passing. Jim was a brilliant lawyer and contributed so must to advancing social and economic justice through the law - he was also kind and thoughtful - he will be missed - Mary Cornish and George Biggar
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Carol Baker posted a condolence
Saturday, February 20, 2021
No question a legendary lawyer, I feel Jim’s legacy is more about his unwavering kindness. As any successful legal assistant will tell you, mastering the art of catching lawyers at the right time (like when they’ve just won a big case) is key to success in that line of work. With Jim, there was little to no risk of catching him at a bad time. His door was always open and he was consistently there for his colleagues - and no matter your title, he saw you as a colleague.
Furthermore, as one of the most productive human beings to walk the earth, if anyone had a legitimate reason not to know a darn thing about what was going on in anyone else’s life, it was Jim. Yet, not only did he somehow know what other people were up to, he was the first to say “good for you” or “sorry to hear”.
Having worked for lawyers my entire working life, the only one who ever expressed what I had always longed to hear was Jim, who right after the 2014 provincial election, handed me a note along with a contribution to my election campaign, saying: “The firm is proud of you”.
Thank you, Jim.
Carol Baker
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David Jewitt posted a condolence
Thursday, February 11, 2021
We all know that life is precious and fragile but when someone as strong, and generous as Jim passes so suddenly, it leaves us without words except to say what a joy it has been to have known him.
Before I actually met Jim in person I was introduced to him by reputation. Randy Slepchik, an associate at the time at our firm had articled at Sack Goldblatt and one day he asked me if I knew Jim McDonald. Randy said I reminded him a little of Jim who was the senior lawyer at the firm who everyone went to for guidance in litigation matters.
It wasn’t long after our paths crossed. I came to know Jim’s congenial and friendly nature at the annual CALL labour conference. In 2018 I was the beneficiary of his professional expertise. We worked together on a case that for me was an incredibly complex civil litigation matter. Jim’s generosity with his time and his willingness to share his expertise and strategy provided immense reassurance as the case went forward. Somehow he managed to quietly transfer his confidence in the merits of the case to myself and all the other parties involved. That quiet confidence and unwavering dedication to the task at hand was his gift.
Jim was a true and devoted advocate who succeeded in advancing social justice through his practice of law. His generous spirit and lifelong dedication to the law and his devotion to his family has been an inspritation to many and has truly made a difference.
His legacy will live on through his work, his family and all those that he has mentored.
Thank you Jim. It has been a joy to have known you.
David Jewitt
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Paul Pellettier posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Maureen and family, my sympathies and thoughts are with you. The news of Jim’s passing came as a sad shock to me. I remember meeting the two of you together more than 40 years ago. I got to work with Jim on several occasions on cases for the unions I worked for. He was a very fine, very smart, and calm advocate. I referred a few individuals to him with absolute confidence. There were also some shared streetcar rides and, in recent years, the pleasure of running into him on his late evening dog walks. Such a pleasant and friendly guy. He will be missed.
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Hal Roth posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
I learned from an old friend of Jim's sudden passing. I hadn't seen him in over 35 years since I left Toronto but still feel his loss keenly. We met while Jim was in Law School; he helped me write the By-laws for the Grindstone Co-op, a peace center that we ran for a decade or so on an island in Big Rideau Lake. This led to a fascinating stint together covering the Blue Jays for United Press International during their first two years of existence. Jim and I geeked out about baseball but the thing I remember most about him (other than his great handwriting!) was his basic decency as a human being. Looking at the wonderful collection of photos his family has assembled I am so moved to see what an influential and fulfilling life Jim led since I last saw him. The love of Maureen and all his family and friends is a testament to the kind of person Jim was. Our lives are so much richer for having known him, and the world is diminished by his loss. Hal Roth
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Heather Crisp posted a condolence
Sunday, February 7, 2021
My sincere condolences to all of Jim's family. He was a person with great heart and integrity and I was sad to hear this news.
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Kathy Laird posted a condolence
Friday, February 5, 2021
Shin and I are so saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. We know Jim first from our law school days, from his role as our daughter Mika’s soccer coach and as, years later, one of the senior lawyers that Mika worked with at the firm. And I remember some happy occasions in recent years, sharing the 505 streetcar home from downtown with Jim. Over all those years, the same disarming grin! Jim will be so missed. Kathy Laird
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Denise Stokoe posted a condolence
Thursday, February 4, 2021
My sincere condolences to Maureen and the rest of Jim's family. I enjoyed the privilege of working with Jim at Goldblatt Partners, for more than 35 years. Jim was a kind soul and you could always approach him if you needed help with a file, or advice on any other matter. He helped my husband, Newton, on numerous occasions with little things related to his business. We will never forget him and his legacy will live on. RIP Jim.
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Aurora Freeman pledged to donate to Couchiching Conservancy
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
My sincerest condolences. Jim was a very kind man and will be greatly missed.
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Janet and Paul Morrison pledged to donate to Hockey Canada Assist Fund
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
In memory of a wonderful man and a wonderful friend.
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Dave Holwell posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
To Jim's family, friends and extended family of work and hobby I wish to extend my condolences for your loss. I have known and been a client of Jim's working in the firefighting community and WSIB advocacy for best part of thirty years. Jim was such a joy to be around. A wealth of knowledge with such a quiet pleasant but tactful demeanour. I actually heard him raise his voice once but truly justified and perfect timing for it of course. I will think of him always at those Blue Jay games looking into those upper seats knowing he is watching too. We kept him busy and even may have tested him a couple of times but I will always remember Jim as a true professional a gentleman and always looking to right a wrong. Rest in Peace Jim
Dave Holwell
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Heather Walsh posted a condolence
Monday, February 1, 2021
Sending thoughts and prayers to Maureen, Tania and Jesse. Our family met Jim through Leaside Hockey several years ago. My husband coached our son, and was very impressed with Tania. She was a great addition to the team! “Coach Walsh” always interviewed parents to ensure they would “fit” the team as well. Coach Walsh bonded immediately with Jim through their mutual love of hockey, teamwork and mentoring.
Our deepest condolences on losing this great man and role model.
Holding you in thoughts and prayers.
Heather, Graham, Matthew & Russell Walsh
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Sheilah Currie & Mike Gardner uploaded photo(s)
Monday, February 1, 2021
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Our deepest condolences to Maureen, Tania, Jesse, their extended family, and to the wide circle of Jim’s friends and colleagues. He was our friend and neighbour for decades, such a curious, good-natured person who was interested in everything and everyone, and who so obviously relished his family life. What some people may not know is how much Jim and Maureen shared their good fortune with others, since theirs was a form of quiet philanthropy―over the years helping people within the community and beyond, volunteering their time, donating generously to non-profits, taking in a refugee family when they needed it most―and probably much more that we, as friends, did not even know. We wish Jim’s family strength as they navigate a loss that came much too soon. Jim left a wonderful legacy that will be remembered and cherished by those he touched.
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Patty Hainer posted a condolence
Monday, February 1, 2021
My deepest condolences to Maureen, Tania, Jesse and all of Jim’s family and friends. Jim could always be counted on to contribute to the office staff personal charities, whether they were selling cookies, raffle tickets or flower bulbs. I could always be guaranteed, in person and by email, the enjoyment of some sarcastic banter with Jim, and always looked forward to Jim’s witty replies to emails. Miss you Jim.
Patty Hainer
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Margaret Harris posted a condolence
Sunday, January 31, 2021
Like so many, I was stunned and heartbroken to hear the news of Jim’s passing. My heart goes out to you Maureen, Tania, and Jesse as you cope with such a great loss, as well as to all of his family, friends and colleagues. I had the great privilege of working with Jim and the law firm for many years, and have so many fond memories. He was a great man of integrity, kindness and generosity. He was someone people always looked up to. I have no doubt that his spirit will live on in the many lives that he touched so deeply. I am very thankful to have known him.
Margaret Harris
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Anna McMillan pledged to donate to Hockey Canada Assist Fund
Sunday, January 31, 2021
In memory of my brother one of hockeys biggest fans
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Peter Jacobsen posted a condolence
Sunday, January 31, 2021
Deepest sympathy. He was/ is a great soul. Always a pleasure to deal with and a credit to his community and profession. He will be sorely missed. Peter Jacobsen
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John Nancy Hartford posted a condolence
Sunday, January 31, 2021
John & I were so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a lovely man & i know how much you loved him.
Nancy & John Hartford (Kincardine)
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Pauline Ballantyne Kessy Posted Feb 1, 2021 at 5:50 PM
Sincere Sympathy Maureen,Tania Jesse And All Your Families,Also To My Cousins Teresa,Anna,Maggie,Helen And All Your Families.I Grew Up Knowing Jim In Arthur,Visiting Our Grandma Riordan,A Long Time Ago.Our Thoughts And Prayers Are With You All At This Most Difficult Time.
Dillon And PaulineKessy Nee Ballantyne
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Tom Edward posted a condolence
Sunday, January 31, 2021
Dear Aunt Maureen, Tania and Jessie
Our condolences to you. Uncle Jim will be missed but never forgotten. Sending our love to you xo
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Cynthia Wilkey posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Dear Maureen, my condolences to you and your family. Jim was a wonderful and supportive mentor when I articled at SGM. I can still picture the warmth and energy in his smile. I am deeply saddened by his passing. I hope you can find some comfort in the many tributes being offered in these pages.
Cynthia Wilkey
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Tricia Brioux posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Deepest condolences to Maureen, Tania and Jesse. I knew Jim from SGM and assisted him and Sharon from time to time. Jim was always a kind, gentle and thoughtful man who worked tirelessly for his clients and who was completely devoted to doing his best of their behalf. We shared a love of hockey and it was actually Jim who suggested my daughter look into Leaside, when she was just learning to play, and where she then subsequently played competitively for years. I'll never forget that - it was a positive life altering suggestion. Jim was a bright light in the office; a kind and gentle soul. May his memory bring you some solace.
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Miriam Devonport posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
My deepest, heartfelt condolences to Maureen, Tania and Jesse.
The 10 years I worked with Jim as his second assistant were the happiest of my career. I learned so much from him and he was always so kind, patient and respectful. Over the years Jim also took a personal interest in my family and our various goings on. He was very generous with his words of wisdom and very caring during our times of trouble and loss. He was also happy to exchange stories about our travel adventures. His adventures were always more "adventurous" than mine though. He was fearless. Jim kept in touch with me after I retired last year, to see how I was doing and to ask after my family. It meant a lot that he still cared, even though we no longer worked together.
I was honoured to work with Jim and to help right the wrongs that were dealt to his clients. He was a hero to those he helped and I was so proud to tell people I worked for him.
I will always be grateful for having known Jim. He was a shining example of how to live your best life. He made me a better person and I will never forget him.
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Mary Kainer posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Dear Maureen and family,
Michael and I were shocked and saddened to learn of Jim's passing. In normal times we would be able to get together, grieve and reminisce. In these Covid lock-down times, we are not able to meet. We hope there will soon be a time we can celebrate Jim's remarkable life. Jim will remain in our hearts and thoughts.
Mary and Michael Kainer
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Donna Meyer posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
We send our most sincere condolences to your entire on the loss of Jim. The photo collage was so special to watch and showed such a diversity of passion and commitment for family, fun and life adventures. We send our thoughts and love to each of you during this very difficult time. Ray and Donna
Dan Abrahams posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Maureen and family, so terribly sorry for your loss. I did not know Jim personally but his professional reputation was tremendous. Thinking of you at this extraordinarily difficult and sad time.
Dan Abrahams
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Joy Noonan lit a candle
Saturday, January 30, 2021
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I read this news in the Globe & Mail about an hour ago and it just seared my heart - I do not need to tell anyone in Jim's work or personal family what a gem he was because you know this already. I am a female mediator/arbitrator who could easily have been Jim's daughter age-wise. That he would choose to retain me to assist in various cases, and treated me with such respect, meant so much to me. Frankly, he reminded me so much of my own beloved Dad who I lost at this same age a few years back. I loved working with Jim.
Jim always had a young lawyer with him, mentoring. How incredibly fortunate they were to have such kind, warm wisdom to show them the ropes. Opposing counsel also also respected him deeply; this was obvious. I was Jim's mediator on a case only a few weeks ago on Zoom, and he was affable, charming in working to resolve the conflict [ which we did] ... and had a new lawyer attending with him as was his norm. I echo the passage in the beautiful tribute written in the Globe : 'Jim always felt so lucky in his life, but truly we were the lucky ones.' Indeed, we were. Godspeed Jim. Heartfelt condolences to your family and your colleagues.
Joy Noonan
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Friday, January 29, 2021
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Friday, January 29, 2021
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Friday, January 29, 2021
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Friday, January 29, 2021
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Friday, January 29, 2021
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The family of James 'Jimmy' Kenneth McDonald uploaded a photo
Thursday, January 28, 2021
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