James (Jimmy) Henderson arrived into the world feet first on a balmy February day in Comox, BC in 1958. His mother, Yvonne, was thrilled with his arrival, if not his presentation! He was born with a Nova Scotian heart inherited from his father, David; and a skill for mischief, mayhem and joy that was contagious to all he met.

Jimmy loved researching WWII aviation history and model building, reading (which he did voraciously) as well as woodworking and hiking the many trails around Red Deer, which has been his home since 1978. From being an accomplished bartender and part of a merry, hard working troupe of roving pile drivers and bridge builders, Jimmy transitioned to Home Depot 15 years ago. Soon becoming a gregarious fixture, he was well renowned for his sound advice and was a master at mixing paint. Jimmy loved conducting the hands-on workshops for kids on Saturday mornings at the store – he had the gift of being eternally young at heart and had an amazing way of honestly and joyfully connecting with children, who instantly adored him. Jimmy also worked with Team Depot on many community volunteer projects – with a heart of pure gold, Jimmy was a friend to everyone he met.

Left behind to miss his sparkling blue eyes and continue to listen for his trademark whistle are his partner and love of his life, Kim O’Brien; daughter Tina; son Kevin (Elizabeth); as well as his much-adored grandchildren Haley, Kayla and William; mum-in-law Jennifer and brother-in-law Patrick (Olga). Jimmy’s departure leaves a gaping hole in the Henderson Clan and his generous, joyous heart will be sorely missed by siblings Dawn (Mike), Ivor (Anne), Sherry (Larry), Carol (Rus) and Kim (Lyle), as well as many cousins and countless friends collected through a life well lived. “Uncle Jimmy” will be ingrained lovingly in the memories of his nephews and nieces, Ben, David, Chandi, Erinn, Brendan, Bryn, Samantha, Lindsey, Amanda, Melissa, Stephen and all their children.

As a last request, Jimmy would like anyone not yet fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to consider doing so in his memory.

A bench dedicated to Jimmy will be placed along the Red Deer hiking trails he so enjoyed. If you’d like to donate, please contact the family directly or through the remembrance link provided for more information.

• Date : 2021-09-05
• Location : Red Deer Funeral Home