Jim Shropshire passed away peacefully after a brief illness at Hospice Simcoe, Barrie, ON, on March 19th, 2026, at the age of 85 years.
Born in Newmarket to Charles and Mildred, the middle child of five siblings, Jim left home to join the military in 1958, serving with the 8th Canadian Hussars, an armoured regiment, until 1965, both in Canada and Germany.
Jim started his own family with Dorothy in 1965, settling in the Creemore area of Ontario.
Never limited to one direct path, Jim’s artistic and creative nature was often reflected in his work choices, including being a mold maker at Blue Mountain Pottery, and later the stitcher of quality hockey equipment at John Brown’s in Collingwood.
His interest in history, heritage and the outdoors led him to be an excavator on various Ontario archaeological projects, and to join the Ontario Archaeological Society (OAS), holding executive positions in the Toronto Chapter for a few years, and writing a number of published papers.
Jim’s adventure continued in Toronto with the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires; postings at government offices, a university college and upscale condos provided Jim with many interesting experiences and encounters. His respect for duty and his efforts to fulfil responsibilities stood him in good stead. Shortly after he retired in 2010, Jim and his longtime partner Marjorie Clarkson relocated in Barrie, ON.
Jim’s lifelong hobby of building model planes and boats, as well as detailed Christmas decorations for family and friends, kept him busy well into retirement. Gardening, long walks, and road trips to historically interesting locales, and the occasional overseas trip to the UK kept him engaged and produced many affectionate and humorous tales.
Jim was pre-deceased by his parents, his older brother Lorne (and wife Jean) of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and grand-daughter Michelle. He was a loving father to Margaret (Craig) of Barrie, and Andrew of Creemore, and a proud grandfather to Michelle (Brandon), Kristine (Justin) and Leah, and great-grandfather to Brinley, Fiona and Cullen, and uncle to Bill (Sofia) of Winnipeg. Friends and family may recall Jim’s quiet charm, shy smile, and his enjoyment of relating stories and his elegant collection of hats.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations will be appreciated to Hospice Simcoe, the Huronia Chapter of the OAS, or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences and memories may be shared via www.steckleygooderham.com