BALCOM, Jim Balcom

Passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, at Age Care Parkhill, at the age of 88.

Jim was born and raised in Nictaux, Nova Scotia, the beloved son of Royal and Bertha (Whynot) Balcom, both predeceased. From an early age, Jim developed the values of hard work, service, and quiet dedication that would guide him throughout his life.

At just 17 years old, Jim left Nova Scotia to join the Royal Canadian Regiment in London, Ontario, beginning a proud and lifelong career in the Canadian Armed Forces. He was first posted to Soest, Germany from 1955 to 1957, and upon his return was stationed at Camp Ipperwash, where he met the love of his life, Betty Jamieson, who worked in the office. They were married in 1959, sharing 67 wonderful years together.

Jim later completed a cooking course and was re-badged to the Service Corps, a role that suited him perfectly. Along with Betty and their two sons, he returned to Soest, Germany from 1962 to 1965. In 1965, the family returned to London, Ontario, where Jim worked at the Officers’ Mess.

In 1967, he completed a tour in Cyprus, and upon returning to Canada was posted to Kingston, Ontario, where he worked at Kingston Military Hospital, overseeing food services and supply operations. Jim retired from the Regular Forces with the rank of Warrant Officer, a position reflecting his leadership, reliability, and commitment to service.

Never one to slow down, Jim continued his service as a Lieutenant with the Army Cadets at Camp Ipperwash, later being promoted to Major.

In 1989, he spent many summers at Camp Borden, where he ran the kitchen for cadet programs and received a Service Appreciation Award for his dedication.

Following his military career, Jim embraced farming—a life he truly loved. Alongside Betty, he became deeply involved in the community, volunteering countless hours cooking for fire hall events, church functions, and the Thedford Community Centre. His meals were well known and fondly remembered. Jim was also a proud member of the Grand Bend Legion, where he cooked the New Year’s Day Levee meal for many years.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife Betty Balcom (née Jamieson); his sons Barry (Linda) Balcom and Rob Balcom; and his daughter Kammi Jamieson (Chrystal).

He was a proud grandfather to Kaylan (Jordana), Jarrid, Brodie (Justine), Gina (Rita), Jessica (Kris), Chante (Kyle), and Colyn (Carly), and a cherished great-grandfather to Taya, Calder, Bennett, Briella, Ronan, Weslee, Turner, Caleigh, Oaklee, and Payten.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Royal and Bertha Balcom, and his siblings Chester (Olga), Lewis (Beverly), Katherine (Henry), Russell (Carolyn), and others who welcomed him home. He is survived by siblings Donald (Karen), Royal (Susan), and Judy.

He was also predeceased by his in-laws Stanley and Georgina Jamieson, and brother-in-law Harley, and is fondly remembered by Bonnie (Jim), Carol, and Doug.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Thedford United Church on Saturday, February 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

A funeral service will follow at noon, officiated by Rev. Jeff Smith.

Visitation
Saturday 7 FEBRUARY
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thedford United Church
74 Nelson Street
Thedford, Ontario, Canada

Service
Saturday 7 FEBRUARY
12:00 pm
Thedford United Church
74 Nelson St.
Thedford, Ontario, Canada

Reception
Saturday 7 FEBRUARY
1:30 pm
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 278
42 Nelson Street
Thedford, Ontario, Canada