1947 – 2026
With heavy hearts, we share that Walter James Boutilier, known to many as “Jim,” passed away on January 31, 2026. Born August 1, 1947, Jim was a man who touched everyone he met with kindness and warmth. Always ready with a smile and stories to tell, he had a heart full of gold and could easily make you laugh.
One of the highlights of his life was meeting his wife Eva. Their love story was something special. Jim often said Eva was “The One,” and they spent years traveling together to see family and friends, creating countless memories. You could always spot them holding hands, sharing a look only they understood.
Jim played a big role in raising thirteen amazing children who made him proud every day: Nancy (Gord), Tammy (Tyler), Susie (Gino), Roger (Sheila), Jay (Robin), Mike (Shari), Richard (Yvonne), David (Karen), Jason (Patricia), Kyle, Garret, Alison (Gavin), Stephanie (Ryan). He also leaves behind seventeen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren who will carry forward his spirit.
Every part of Jim’s life brought new adventures. Starting work at just 13 out of necessity, he picked up many skills over the years. From working in a Toronto donut shop to candling eggs on the Prairies; from ranch work out West to mining in the Yukon – then eventually stepping into trucking that took him all around the world meeting lots of folks along the way. Jim also helped bring Kenworth Truck Sales to Thunder Bay. The grand opening in the late ’90s at Twincity Crossroads and Arthur Street was a huge three-day event where he really made his mark locally. He was always ready to help out or chase down the next “Big Deal of the Day” – all while driving his own bus!
Later in life, Jim faced health challenges but kept fighting against all odds-way beyond what anyone expected. We joked that he had “27 lives,” but this one truly stood out.
His family’s love gave him strength right through till the end. Every day he asked everyone “Have I told you today, I/ We love you?” And we’d always answer back “We love you more!” Jim will be missed by so many-a man loved by all who knew him and remembered by every single one.
Jim leaves behind his loving wife Eva; their children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren-(Grandpa we’ll miss your Manitoba visits); several siblings; plus Eva’s family too.
He was predeceased by his parents, two siblings, and other relatives.
A Celebration of Life for Jim is set for Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Slovak Legion Solarium from 1pm – 4pm.
The family thanks Dr. Chan and Dr. Sellick along with staff from Cancer Centre, Emergency Department and Ward 2A for their care over these years.
If you’d like to honor Jim’s memory without flowers please consider donating to Salvation Army Journey to Life Thunder Bay or Canadian Cancer Society-they’d really appreciate it.
“Go ride those Golden Highways Jim”
“We Love You”
You can leave condolences at www. nwfainc. com
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