James Lowell Body

December 14, 1935 – December 7, 2024

Peacefully, at People Care Nursing Home in Tavistock, precisely one week before his 89th birthday. Born in his parents’ home on a cold December day in 1935 in Norwich, Ontario, Lowell spent all but 7 months of his nearly 89 years as a resident of his beloved town.

He was the sixth of ten children of Ethel (Moores) and James Lyon Body. Predeceased by siblings Joan, John, Ruth, Howard, Louise, Lance, Gilbert, and Kathleen. Survived by ex-wife Nancy (Bucholtz) Deadman, children Howard (son Christopher, predeceased) and Nanci, partner Vivian VanWilligen, stepchildren Richard and Randy, their children (Andrea and Richard, and Laikin and Cooper), brother Tim and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Lowell, as he was known by family and friends, was well known by the school truancy officer on a first-name basis, along with many of his brothers. After half completing grade 9, he got his start at the broom factory, like many of the local youth back then. He developed friendships there that would last well into adulthood.

In 1971, he left Norwich for the first time to live in Kitchener, where he spent six months earning his plumbing license. This would become his primary employment as a contractor in the community he loved and cherished for the rest of his life. Eventually, he went solo in business and never looked back, shaping his future in his own way. He served his community for many years up until the 1990s.

Lowell loved to travel, visiting Mexico, England, Eastern Canada, and the United States. He enjoyed spending time at Long Point and on his friend Don Bucholtz’s boat. He was a loyal supporter of the Royal Canadian Legion and bowled as a team member for several years at the Norwich Bowling Alley.

His quick wit and sometimes blunt manner of speaking were distinctive and endearing qualities that will be deeply missed.

There will be a very informal gathering at the Norwich Legion on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM to toast his birthday. A more formal service will take place in the spring when the cemetery has re-opened.

As per Lowell’s wishes, cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Arn-Lockie Funeral Home Ltd..