Jim McConnan, one of the original Black Sheep, banjo player, great spirit, dear friend, beloved brother, passed away quietly in his sleep on Friday, August 11 2018, after a recurrence of cancer that he had courageously lived with for two years, never losing his humour and enjoyment of life, in spite of extreme odds.
Jim (William James) was born in Lancashire, England, May 25, 1944, to Kenneth and Janet (née Goscombe Fildes) McConnan. A traditional boarding school education and a desire to escape what he later called the “dank, dreary, depressing England of the 60s” drew him to make the Atlantic crossing on the Cunard liner Atlantica. He eventually settled on Bowen Island, becoming a Canadian citizen in 1975.
Jim spent several years near Hundred Mile House, living with others in the Stump Ranch commune, where they all worked the land. Jim told tales about living in a geodesic dome, looking after pigs and panning for gold.
He worked as head groundsman at Gleneagles Golf Club through to his retirement in 2007. This was coupled with Jim’s love of gardening. He had great pride in his veggies. In summertime there was always of abundance of cabbages, onions, garlic and zucchinis, much of which he gave away.
Jim was very involved in theatre on Bowen, and directed several plays. His real love lay with his banjo; his pride and joy was his handmade Romero.
Jim was a founding member of the Fiddleheads, and an original member of the Black Sheep Morris Side. With the help of Jim’s generosity, the Sheep were able to tour England in 2009. Jim also delighted in the Sheep’s many performances and tours up and down the Pacific Coast. None of which is to forget his annual performance as the doctor in the Christmas mummers play.
Jim adored France and French food. Every February he made a huge bouillabaisse for more than 40 people, making stock from halibut and salmon, and bringing in every kind of seafood you can imagine for the festive gatherings at Black Sheep manor.
He had a strong sense of connection to England, making regular visits to see his half-sisters and their friends and visiting old haunts.
Many people were touched by Jim’s kindness and generosity, not least of whom were his step-children. He is deeply missed by his many friends, and loving family, both on Bowen and in the UK. v
A celebration of life will be held at 1223 Miller Road, Susan Munro and Bob Doucet’s home, from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, August 18. Please bring memories, music and small plates of finger food. Friends will be paying tribute to Jim at 3:15 p.m.
