It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Bidmead

on December 12th, 2024, at the age of 76.  James will be deeply missed

by his loving wife Bonnie Bidmead (Hawke).  He leaves behind his

children Tina (Gareth Taylor) and Corey (Larissa Mair), and

grandchildren Lauren, Rhys and Devan.

Born on June 12th, 1948, in Orilla to late parents Don and Ena of

Moonstone. James was the beloved brother of his late sisters Brenda

(Gord Wilson), Carol (Stephen Caldwell) and Donna (Jan Nielsen).

Raised in the Coldwater area where he met his only love Bonnie, no

doubt causing trouble together at the local bowling alley or driving

around in one of James' cars. Married October 5th, 1968 they recently

celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary.  They moved to Barrie and

raised their family. James was a long-time worker in the area with

York Trading, General Tire, General Electric, Alloy Wheels, Pillsbury,

and Muskoka Transport.

James had life throw a few curve balls over the years but always had a

positive attitude, a witty joke to tell, and a smile on his face. Over

30 years ago he fell from a ladder and required knee surgery, during

his recovery time he went back to school and completed his GED.  In

2021 he suffered an aneurysm and a subsequent stroke and we nearly

lost him then, but he overcame although leaving him bound to a

wheelchair now, but he still had his humor, and we think he just liked

to have Bonnie push him around.  The family cherishes these last few

extra years we all got to share together. He saw his grandchildren

graduate high school and start building their lives and careers.

James was a dedicated family man who always put their needs before his

own, almost to a fault.  He was successful at instilling his core

values in his children, work hard at whatever you do, have fun doing

it, provide for your family, but remember chasing the almighty dollar

is not worth losing the time and memories with your family.

A lover and aficionado of coffee (with a warm mug) and donuts, and

baked goods of all kinds.  He solely kept several local coffee shops

in business over the years and will be surely missed by all local

baking tables around Barrie.

James and his hair.... it needed to be always perfect.  The torcher

this caused his children on Christmas mornings, no presents could be

opened before James emerged with perfectly combed hair and a cup of

coffee.   His grandchildren greatly enjoyed messing up his hair at

every opportunity, and many great memories of James with a mohawk

while playing with the kids in the pool.

James will be remembered for his warm heart, steadfast dedication to

his family, and his infectious sense of humor.  He leaves behind a

legacy of love and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who

knew him.

James / Dad / Grandpa / Uncle you are loved, and we will miss you dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor James’s memory and the impact

he had on those who knew and loved him at the Columbus Hall, 93 Berczy

Street, Barrie on Saturday May 31st from 2:30 - 5pm.