A long life, well lived, has ended. James Wakeham was born in Petite Forte, Newfoundland and Labrador to Cecilia and James Wakeham. He moved to Placentia at a young age to work on the USA Naval Base in Argentia. 

 

He would work there for 27 years before working additional proud years at CN/Marine Atlantic. Amongst his work life were his volunteer commitments. For 23 years he served as a volunteer with the Placentia Volunteer Fire Brigade.   

 

Known for his indelible wit and charm, James was the life of the party. Along with the other half of his heart, Mary, the two threw exemplary parties and get-togethers. Between the house and the shed, there was always room for company.   

 

Whether outfitted in one of his treasure trove of costumes, or regaling any and all with a joke or a tale, one lasting impression is clear. He loved life, and loved making it brighter for all those who knew him.   

 

Left to mourn are his many family and friends whom will miss him dearly. His son, Tony (Patricia Wakeham) and daughter, Hilda (Christopher Dunn, deceased;) his grandchildren; Stephanie (Matthias Wellerman;) Christopher (Jessica Wakeham;) Christopher (Morgan Locke;) James; and great grandchildren, both arrived and yet to be born; Nicolas (Stephanie and Matthias;) his brother, Fred (Melcora Madamba;) brother in law Patrick Ryan (Blanche Ryan deceased;) sisters in law Nellie Boylan (Ron Boylan deceased;) Anne Tarrant (Don Tarrant), Angela Hanrahan (John Hanrahan), Marguerite Ryan (Michael Ryan deceased;) Margaret Ryan (Anthony Ryan deceased;) his neighbours, the Fleming family; and all the members of the Wakeham and Ryan families.   

 

He is predeceased by his darling wife of 58 years, Mary; As well as his son in law, Christopher (Hilda;) his many beloved brothers and sisters Tom (Ellen Flynn;) Vincent (Lillian Morry;) Paul (Kathleen Doyle;) Howard (Almena Fleming;) Maude; Sr. Lillian; Margaret (Allan Hayden;) Marie (George Adams;) his Ryan family members; mother in law Hilda Ryan and father in law Patrick Ryan; sister in law Stella Elias (Bob Elias;) Blanche Ryan (Patrick Ryan;) brother's in law Michael Ryan (Marguerite Ryan;) Anthony Ryan (Margaret Ryan;) Ron Boylan (Nellie Boylan.)  He was an incredibly special man, who impacted many lives and his wonderful spirit will continue to live on in all who knew him going forward.   

 

Visitation will take place at Maher’s funeral home in Placentia, NL on Wednesday, October 19th from 1PM - 9PM. Funeral service will be held the following day, Thursday, October 20th, starting 10:30AM at the Sacred Heart Church in Placentia, NL.