Obituary of James Frank Reece

James Frank “Jim” Reece, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on March 7th, 2024, in Ottawa, Ontario after a brief illness. He was born on April 30th, 1932 in Sarnia, Ontario. Jim was predeceased by his first wife, Jean Reece, his beloved second wife, Pat Horton, his older sister May Myres (the late Earl Myres) and sister-in-laws, Marion Stone, Marion Kirk and Vicky Monks. He is survived by his children, Morina (Tammy), Greg (Joanne), Tom (Janet), Randy and step-children, Deanna Horton and Craig Horton (Sharon). Grandpa to Lauren, Chelsea, Kassandra, James and Andrew. Great Grandpa to nine great grandchildren, a devoted brother to his sisters, Margaret Cottrell-Boyd ( the late Jock Boyd) and Patti Clement (the late Glenn Clement), brother-in-law to Keith Ingoe and Uncle Jim to many nieces and nephews. 

Jim spent five years in the Navy before he found his true calling. A dedicated and accomplished businessman in the insurance industry, Jim joined Reddick and MacDonald Ltd in the 50’s with partners, Tom Reddick and Alex MacDonald to pursue his career. After taking ownership of the Company, his son Greg joined in a successful partnership creating a superior insurance legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Jim’s commitment, expertise, and fun-loving spirit earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

He was a proud member of the Ottawa West Lion’s Club and the Laurentian Club in downtown Ottawa. 

In 2012 he suffered the first of two strokes that challenged him physically and mentally but by no means lessened his determination to continue living life to its fullest. He continued to work part-time until he decided it was time to officially retire at 85 years of age. 

Jim was known for his generosity, kindness, instigation of mischievous fun, especially at the former Al’s Steakhouse and the Churchill Arms. He had a passion for spending time at his adored cottage, where he indulged in his love for tinkering, swimming, barbecuing and the “occasional” Crown Royal and water with his best buddies. His favourite pastimes included snowmobiling, NASCAR racing, hunting camp, and in his younger days, camping, running and cycling. Jim was always up for a good “happy hour”.   

Jim’s zest and determination for life and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

A special thank you to Chartwell Stillwater Creek Retirement Residence staff and to the Queensway Carleton ICU and D3 medical floor nurses and doctors for their care and compassion. 

Jim’s Celebration of Life will take place at Highland Park (2037 McGee Side Road, Carp) on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. on what would have been his 92nd birthday.  

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation (Ottawa) would be appreciated.