Passed away peacefully at LHSC – University Hospital, London on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at the age of 89. Beloved husband of Elva (Ross) Lesley for 65 years. Cherished father of Jim Lesley, Paul Lesley, and Janice and Patrick Colquhoun. Adored grandfather of Alanna, Shane; Keaton, Tristan; Zachary, Kaitlyn, and Brogan. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Philip and Simone Lesley, Jack Hole, Barbara and Rick Hodge, and John Ross. Fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and extended family in Canada and overseas. Predeceased by his daughters-in-law Renata Lesley, and Sandee Lesley, sisters Anne Lesley, and Alice Hole, his parents James and Alice Mary (O’Neill) Lesley and parents-in-law Herbert and Agnes (Johnston) Ross and step father-in-law, Graydon Marshall.
Jim’s life was one defined by resilience, determination, and gratitude. Growing up in Oshawa, Ontario, he left school at the age of 16 to help provide for his family — a decision that reflected a sense of responsibility he carried throughout his life. Jim began his working career in Toronto and went on to work across Ontario and Saskatchewan, including time with refineries and later the Ford Motor Company. At the age of 40, Jim and his beloved wife Ev took a leap of faith, starting their own paint and wallpaper business and uprooting their family to Saskatchewan. Through economic challenges and recession, Jim’s perseverance and work ethic saw the business succeed.
Jim faced life’s hardships head-on. He survived cancer and a myocardial infarction, both requiring surgery and extensive treatment, yet he met each challenge without complaint. Instead, he focused on solutions, always choosing gratitude even when circumstances suggested otherwise. His words, “You can either get better or be bitter,” remain a guiding lesson for all who knew him.
A passionate sportsman, Jim loved coaching his sons’ baseball and hockey teams and was proudly inducted into the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame for his Connaught Park softball championship achievements. Beyond the rink and diamond, he found joy in golf, curling, fishing, reading, crossword puzzles, playing cards and cheering on his beloved Boston Red Sox and Bruins. Jim and Ev shared an incredible 65 years together, enjoying a fulfilling retirement in Kingston, Ontario, surrounded by family, memorable gatherings, and travel around the world. Today, Jim is best remembered by pausing for a moment of gratitude — for family, friends, and the blessings found even in life’s challenges.
Cremation has taken place. Jim memorial service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 1pm at St. Michael’s Parish, 511 Cheapside Street, London. Interment St. Peter’s Cemetery.
Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Jim’s memory would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 6 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Grand Bend, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $3/km (one way travel only).
I am saddened to hear of Jim’s passing and express my sincere condolences to his family and friends. I knew Jim through RKCC and have vivid recollections of his steadfast positiveness, gentle spirit and endless encouragement. He was a true gentleman and will be remembered fondly.
I am so incredibly sorry for the loss of uncle Jim. My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time.
We so enjoyed our times with Jim over the years. He was a great father to Sandee after Franks passing..He had a wonderful life. Thinking of his family in this time of sorrow.
Jim was, without doubt, one of the most intelligent, well read, interesting and genuinely kind people that we have ever had the privilege of calling our friend! He will be missed.