JAMES, Garfield The Cat James

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of “THE CAT” Garfield James at Health Sciences North on August 24th, 2025, With his “embraced” daughter, Melissa Allen, by his side, he found peace after a long battle of “I’m not leaving my home”.

With his stubborn wishes met, Garfield leaves behind his pride and joy, goddaughter Vada- Rayne Mila, who solidified “The James Clan.”

Garfield, an expert exterminator, could never be slowed down. He lived his life on his own terms. Helping others, always wanting to make a difference, and seeing the positive in each situation.

Predeceased by his BEAUTIFUL WIFE Linda, Garfield held onto the moment they would reunite. Often saying, “We didn’t leave one another, we were taken from each other.” Now, they are peacefully together again.

As an avid hunter, Garfield loved his time on Manitoulin Island. Fundamental moments of his stories included time spent with the boys at “Whiskey Corner” (Charlie’s Shell) Rodney Hopkins was always the topic of conversation as Garfield’s greatest pal and what their next venture was. Garfield became a local celebrity at the Gore Bay Legion, where he had too many friends to mention, but all know who you are (he loves you all).

Costa Rica became one of “Cats” favourite places in his later years. Where he experienced many memorable adventures (zip lining, cliff diving, salsa dancing, volcano climbing – among others) and met many new friends, he looked forward to every March when his precious Vada would join him in the sunny south to experience surfing and horseback riding.

A man of many talents and interests, nothing could stop him, even in his final moments, it was his rules, his way. (JAJAJAJA).

Honorably, Garfield always spoke of his and Linda’s “dollhouse” in Val Caron that they built by hand. Clearing the land and reaping the fruits of their labor. With horses, dogs, and a love for one another, they created a homestead that stands true to its original preserve. Or as they called it “Blueberry Hill.”

Deanne, his “Chum,” became a significant part of Cat’s life 2 years ago when she became his primary caregiver, allowing his wishes to stay at home to be met. He definitely gave her the brunt of the “Garfield stubbornness,” which was an appreciated break from Melissa (YUK YUK YUK).

Garfield was a very well-known man of honesty and integrity, in his many watering holes, that he was able to socialize with all of his friends (far too many to mention) The National Hotel, Overtime, Gore Bay Legion, the Plaza Hotel, The Nickel City, Solid Gold, The Coulson Hotel, Okeechobee Lodge, and notably, Killarney Mountain Lodge, where he loved to take his goddaughter Vada after a feast of fish and chips at Herbert Fisheries.

Garfield’s love of people, animals, camp, travelling, and “good time pals” will always be remembered. Special thanks to Mike who went out of his way to build a ramp (with 2 days’ notice to accommodate our big guy!) Bill Bye for being a constant visitor the past couple of years, Attillio of OT for always offering and making sure Garfield could or would have his favourite meal (fish and chips). Bill Clarke, for constantly checking up on the camp and to everyone that played a helping hand in ensuring that Garfield’s final days were everything he wanted.

Special thanks to his great friend John, who brought Cat to Camp as often as possible, advocated fiercely on his behalf, and looked out for his best interests. You are a true angel on earth.

Admiration goes out to Garfield’s care team. Dr. Hepting, his MD, Dr. Yao, Canadian Shield, and Community Care Paramedics. You all made it possible for him to remain at home, where he wanted to be.

Greater thanks to the fantastic staff at HSN, who made his final moments comfortable, dignified, and supportive.

Garfield leaves behind many friends, 80 years of memories, and a lifetime of love and respect. His love knew no boundaries. He is now at peace with his mother, father, wife and eternal peace.

This is not goodbye. This Is, until we meet again. We invite everyone to have some fish and chips (Cat’s favourite meal) to honor his legacy.

A celebration of life will be hosted in Sudbury, ON, and another sponsored in Gore Bay, ON, in October 2025, with dates to follow.

In lieu of flowers, we invite donations to the “Garlin Fund” at Laurentian University that was initially set up in Linda’s honor. Still, we will now recognize both Linda and her forever Garfield.

Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury and Crystal Crematorium.