James Tenhove

It is with great sadness that the family of James (Jim) Tenhove announce his passing at the age of 77 years. Jim passed away peacefully at his home near Red Deer, Alberta on October 27th, 2025.
Jim was born in Zwolle, Netherlands on April 23, 1948. As one of eleven children born to Albert and Klazina Tenhove, he emigrated to Canada in 1953, the family settling in Red Deer where he grew up on a small acreage that is now Highland Green.

After graduating from NAIT as a journeyman mason, Jim set his roots in the Red Deer region and went on to build his own company — Red Deer Majestic Masonry. With steady hands and a mindful approach to each and every task at hand, he helped raise the walls and foundations of countless homes and landmarks. His work ethic and dedication to his craft will be an integral part of his legacy to be enjoyed by many generations to come.

Jim married Marion Rose Cardinal on October 16, 1971, and they remained in Red Deer, creating a beautiful life filled with love and happiness for their three children, Joshua, Pamela and Jason.
The family lost Jason in 1995 to a tragic accident, and Marion to cancer in 2014. Jim’s strength, faith, and undying love helped many through those challenging times. He had immeasurable time and support for absolutely everyone, and was a rock for anyone in need.

Jim is also pre-deceased by his parents, older brothers Dick(Coby) and Evert(Marg), sisters Joanne(Rick), Fenny(Jesse), Jean(Albert) and Alice(Floyd), who passed four days before Jim.

Jim is survived by his son, Joshua (Layla) and daughter, Pamela (Michael), Grandchildren, Katelyn (Tyson), Austin (Ella), Colton, Hailey, Jonah, Asher, Gabriel, and Great-granddaughter Sage. He is also survived by Brother John (Grace), and sisters Jenny and Ena (Barry) and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman and loved camping and fishing with his family and good friends. And as much as he appreciated (tolerated) travelling with family, he was a home-body and his home was a sanctuary and a healing place for many. Together with his precious dog Lola, they tended the grounds and gardens, walked the valley trails and readied the place for the next visitor who might need his calm presence and gentle spirit to find some peace of mind. He was always prepared to fix whatever needed fixing — with a tool in his hand, a hug in his arms, and gentle guidance wrapped in campfire wisdom.

Jim was a gem and a giant, and the world is far lesser without his light, but his memory and enduring love for all will fill hearts and light the darkness like a torch.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, November 10th at The First Christian Reformed Church, 16 McVicar Street, Red Deer, with a luncheon to follow in the church hall.  There will also be an optional viewing at 12:00 pm prior to the service. HIs Sister Alice’s grandson, the Reverend Christopher Roth, will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the SPCA, a conservation based charity of your choice, or possibly planting an evergreen somewhere you feel he might like to visit. Condolences to the family may be made by visiting www.eventidefuneralchapels.com

• Date : 2025-10-27
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home, www.eventidefuneralchapels.com