William "James" Peterson

Peacefully and surrounded by members of his family, William “James” Peterson passed away in Maple Creek on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at the age of 94.

James was born and raised south of Piapot and worked on his parents ranch until his early 30’s. During this time, he met Jackie, one of the ranch employees, who became the love of his life. The two were wed in 1959.  

Family and friends were very important for James.  He was known for taking the odd quarter “away” from them while playing cards and visiting over a glass of scotch.  If a rodeo was on the TV, he would watch it out the corner of his eye, while the other eye was on his cards.

Taking pride in his work, his career with operating the backhoe and other equipment spanned more than 50 years with South Sask Services, Newki Services and SW Sask Firewood until his “retirement” just before the age of 90. Known in the area for having “smooth hands” and an “eagle eye” while on the backhoe, he has serviced most of the farms and ranches within the area and dug many basements within Maple Creek.

James was an avid woodworker, with many of his planters, chairs, tables and water wheels distributed across Canada with friends and family members.  During “retirement”, he was often seen with Jackie, diligently working in their yard on Cypress St, taking pride in his work at hand.

James spent his last few days doing what he enjoyed, visiting with family, earning the odd quarter while playing cards, and watching the Calgary Stampede (with an occasional drink of scotch). 

James will be lovingly remembered by Jackie, his wife of over 61 years; his children Jim (Caroline), Diana (Johnny) and Don (Brigitte); grandchildren, Lexie (Andrew), Nolan (Haven) and Dylan; great grandchild, Quinn; his sister Dorthy Flannery (Gerald); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and relatives. Throughout the years, James had earned the trust and friendship of many people and will be forever missed.

He was predeceased by his infant son, Bruce; sister Bernice Leslie; brother Victor; parents Paul and Mathilda “Tilley” Peterson; and his brothers-in-law Bob Leslie and Gerald Flannery.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Maple Creek at the United Church, 301 Cypress St. on Monday, July 19 at 2pm with Rev. Michele Rowe officiating.  A private family interment will follow at the Maple Creek Cemetery.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff in the “Pines” section at the Southwest Integrated Healthcare Facility and to the Home Care personnel for their care, compassion and excellence in their assistance.

James will be dearly missed and forever loved. 

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