James “Jim” Bentley

Dear Pam and family We felt it would be appropriate to acknowledge Jim/ Uncle Jim, today, his birthday day. Our thoughts are with you and the whole family as we celebrate his life in our own special ways. As the days pass, we will always cherish the memories we made and shared together. We sincerely hope that time will help us to deal with the saddness of this loss. We hope to continue to bring to mind a kindred story, where Jim is being Jim, and let that inspire us to share his love and his kindness in all that we do and wherever we might go. Take care of one another and know that we are sending our prayers and love your way. Hugs, Deb, Bob, BJ, Lee, Chiara, Cindy, Justin, Casey and Cam

Oh Bently They say the best gift you can give someone is the gift of friendship. Thank you for the best gift you were one of a kind you shared your knowledge of leadership knowledge of kindness and the knowledge to save money From the bottom of my heart Thank you for choosing me to be one of your friends . Rest in peace my dear friend 💕Lori Redmond Veroude

My heartfelt condolences to Jim's wife, Pam, who filled Jim’s life with love & joy, and to his siblings & their families of whom Jim spoke with great pride. It has been an honour to have know Jim since high school and call him my friend. I will cherish the memories of our many adventures together: exploring a haunted house, travelling thru Europe together, and our many visits with friends & lengthy phone conversions. I will miss Jim tremendously and remember him with great admiration. Joanne Little

Rest in peace Jim.

Jim embodied humility and empathy. He loved a good practical joke and trick or treating at his house was always my favourite. I fondly remember games nights at the cottage, holiday dinners with raucous laughter and being spoiled upon his return from overseas adventures. I am grateful to have memories of times shared with such a generous and kind soul.

I am sorry to hear Forest has lost Jim. He was my first date at Woodside Public School dance. He bought me a flower. Not sure what grade , maybe grade seven. I have read all the tributes to Jim and I am seeing he had a good life that touch many people far and wide. Heaven has a true angel now.

We are so sorry for your loss Pam. We enjoyed many stories and laughs on the Taylor deck and playing cards. I have the painting of the tulips hanging in our home. It was for our 50th wedding anniversary. We will miss him.

Growing up, Jim was always around. Were we his adopted kids or was he our adopted uncle? Either way, he was a part of the family. But beyond being an uncle he was also part Santa Claus, bringing cheer to every part of the world a plane or boat or car would take him. But instead of a sleigh he drove a jalopy (in his earlier years). You always knew he was around because if you didn't see him, you could always hear the laughter arising from one of his stories. He was consummate in this regard, and him laughing at his own jokes was part of the storytelling process... he thoroughly enjoyed the poetry and whimsy of life. He visited me three times in Hong Kong, the last time meeting my future wife. He was thrilled for me and for us. I was thrilled that he and Pam are part of my story. Thanks for providing your love & friendship and for always being around.

My condolences to the Jim’s Family & friends. He was a wonder man and I always enjoyed our chats when he was in the office or I ran into him in Forest. Always happy to share any knowledge he had and a wonderful story teller. He will be greatly missed.

Thank you for treating me like family, swimming in the ocean with me and treating me to the best seafood platter I’ve ever had. Rest in peace.

Wishing everyone the best and a smooth transition into JIm "in spirit" being with you always.

A donation has been made to London Food Bank. Message from the donator: Dearest sympathies to Marnie Neathway on the loss of your brother.

Words cannot express the gratitude that Lambton Rural Child Care has for Jim. Jim served for several years on the Board of Directors as a member, the Treasurer and most currently the Board President. Jim was a strong advocate for children, families, and the staff. To say he will be missed is an understatement – his knowledge, support and dedication will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace our dear friend!

Jim, our friendship began in the pool in Yellowknife in the 90’s and adventures began that moment forward! We enjoyed many a “meal” and long, long “Survivor” predictions and discussions over the years from locations all across the country! I still have no regrets in talking you out of wanting to buy a snowmobile and speed boat however! Your virtues and talents were many, your heart huge and you never hesitated to provide your expertise and insight to anyone when needed. We will miss you buddy however do know that “she who must be obeyed” and I will continue our friendship and great shared memories of all your quirks and goodness for as long as we can still remember them! Bye for now dear Friend xoxo Terry

Heard of Jim's passing today from Pam and am I deeply saddened. Jim was a vibrant, larger than life, person who told it like it is, and lived life on his terms. I enjoyed many Saturday breakfasts with him and Pam, dinners and drives while we all lived in Nunavut. He always had his finger on the pulse - which made for great conversation. Jim genuinely cared for people and animals and adored the love of his life, Pam. While we drifted as geographical changes ultimately happen, he and Pam came to Newfoundland for my and Erika's wedding. I will always cherish, and be thankful for those memories, particularly of him trying traditional fish and brewis and cod tongues. Rest easy my friend. I look forward to seeing you down the road. René Ritter, Erika Hansford, Wilder and Casper Ritter

Someone said that when each individual passes, they pass on alone. Not true! When Jim passed, those who knew him had a little of us pass with him. However, this sadness is lifted by what he passed on to us. One can’t stop smiling or laughing at the “gifted moments” he gave us. I bet your thinking of a moment right now and smiling. There it is; we are not alone. Thanks Jim “Bubbles”. We love you.

Although we just met through the pool, I enjoyed listening to your stories and the history of Forest . I would have loved to somehow teach you and your sis pottery, as we also talked about many times. The pool won’t be the same without your cheerful good mornings!

Hey Jim, will miss the times we got together for the LRCC meetings, good meetings and great memories of Forest were discussed. Rest in Peace .

Dear Jim You will be dearly missed, you were always looking out for everyone, being their protector and just making someone’s day better. I will miss your laugh and conversations. Say hi to Sophie for me, I bet she is happy to see you. We will take good care of Pam and Hurcules for you. Lots love Mandy