Obituary of James Gartner

James Philip Gartner passed away in the early hours of April 28, 2015, and he is survived by his brother Patrick. James was born on July 23, 1965, in Daysland, Alberta, and he was the youngest of two boys. The family farmed land north of Daysland, and this upbringing provided James with a sincere work ethic, and a love for the land which he would carry with him forever. Straight out of High School James took work where he found it, and he was sought out by those who knew of his many skills. Eventually he took jobs at various times which included (and these are his descriptions) Chief Cook and Bottle Washer; Auction Market Wrangler; Veterinarian Assistant; and took great pride in acquiring his Class 3 Drivers License, something he put to good use while working for the County of Flagstaff. James loved and participated in many sports. He became a ball player, a ball coach, and a player/coach. He also reminisced about playing Bones tournaments at family gatherings. He also worked with the Daysland North Stars Seniors hockey team as a Manager, and was a volunteer at the arena for many years. In 1998, James was involved in a vehicle accident which left him a quadriplegic, and he had to start life anew. Throughout the ensuing years, James and his sidekick Paco were a familiar fixture on the streets of Daysland, oftentimes with children as passengers, escorts, or tag behinds. His love and kindness were perhaps best displayed towards the children who came into his life over the years. In his later years, James took up creating folk-art of all manner, shape, and size, and he displayed his playful and mischievous spirit through many of his projects. He would bestow these works on friends and loved ones alike. James was predeceased by his parents Adam and Mary Gartner. To the end James remained an inspiration to many who knew him. His eternal optimism and resolute spirit are a lesson and example to all of us. James loved to write poetry, and his poems were characterized by their thoughtfulness and humor. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 2, 2015 from Our Lady of the Prairies Roman Catholic Church, Daysland, with Rev. Len Gartner as celebrant. Interment has taken place in the Daysland Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the War Amps of Canada, or to the Stollery Children's Hospital.