We are saddened to announce the passing of James Hamilton Charles, who died peacefully on May 11, just two days after celebrating his 88th birthday. He was predeceased by his son, James Marcus, in 1982, and his beloved wife, Margaret (Maggie) Illingworth, in 2011.

James was born in Shepherd’s Bush, London, England. He arrived in Canada at the age of 17 and served in the Canadian Air Force for ten years. During his service, he met his first wife, Mary Watson, and they were married for seven years, having four children together. They later moved to Vancouver, where he worked with Canada Post, first as a letter carrier and then as a cartographer, mapping postal routes for British Columbia.

James was a man of quiet faith, a gifted artist, and a lifelong scholar. A collector of antiquarian books, he had a deep passion for ancient history, religion, and literature. He also had a profound appreciation for animals, fine arts, and music.

James is survived by his son Michael (Cheryl), his daughter Anita (and grandson Trevor), his daughter Nina (Wayne Hamelin) and their six children, Wendy, Philip (Kelsey), Robert, Mark, Laura and Emma (Liam Bradley and great-grandsons Forrest and Baxter). He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in memory of James to The Alzheimer Society of BC, the SPCA, or The Salvation Army.