James Arthur Linnell—affectionately known as “Jim”—passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on July 25, 2025, at Royal Inland Hospital.

Born in Hafford, Saskatchewan, on December 17, 1931, Jim lived a full and meaningful life grounded in family, hard work, and community.

On June 9, 1958, Jim married the love of his life, Jo-Ann Hope Benwick, in Regina, Saskatchewan. Together they shared 67 years of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Jo-Ann, and their three children: daughter Cherie and her partner Steve; son Jimmy Linnell and his wife Shannon; and daughter Jamie. He was a proud grandfather to Angela, Kaitlin, Nikolas, McKenzie, and Tori, and a beloved great-grandfather to many cherished great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, Olga and Lyman Linnell, and eight of his siblings: Charles, Helen, Gerry, Ernest (Mickey), Howard, Lorene, Clara, and Harvey.

Jim spent his career as a conductor with CN Rail, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to his team. Outside of work, he lived life with passion and purpose. A dedicated sportsman, Jim played and coached baseball and hockey in Saskatchewan and Alberta throughout the 1950s and 60s. In the 1950s, he traveled overseas to Scotland, where he played for the Ayr Raiders hockey team. In the 1970s, he coached for the Kamloops Minor Hockey Association, and he continued to play recreational hockey for his company team well into his 60s. He was also an avid golfer, enjoying countless days on the course with friends and family.

Jim will be remembered as a kind, humble, and caring man—a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His quiet strength, generous heart, and love of life touched all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and in the many lives he touched.

• Date : 2025-08-14
• Location : Kamloops