Merkir, James John
Passed away peacefully on March 30, 2024 at the age of 93 at the Stedman Hospice in
Brantford, Ontario. Beloved husband for 44 years of the late Margaret (Margo) Obrodovitch
(2015). Predeceased by parents Elias (Alex) and Anastasia (Nellie) and sisters Polly, Marion,
Anne, Katherine and brother Peter.
James helped dad (who was physically impaired) run the farm as a teenager and at age 20 with
brother Michael, successfully ran the farm in Saskatchewan on his own after the family moved to
Ontario for dad’s health. The farm continues to remain in the family with our nephew Jared.
James was an excellent, self taught mechanic who worked in the oil fields as well as various
successful business ventures. James received his Certificate of Electrical Qualifications and
continued doing local small engine and appliance repairs in Vernon, British Columbia in his
retirement years.
James will be remembered as a caring, kind person who enjoyed life, family and friends. He
was totally devoted to family and relatives and could not do enough to help everyone.
A wonderful life lived, he will be greatly missed by brothers Michael (Mike) and Angela, William
(Bill) and MaryAnn, Nicholas (Nick) and Elaine (deceased), Walter and Marlene and many
nephews and nieces.
In keeping with James’ wishes, cremation has taken place and the family will hold a private
celebration for both James and Margo at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Stedman Hospice,in
Brantford, would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Jim was one of our favourite cousins, though we usually called him “Uncle Jim” – He gave me one of my first jobs, and I learned a lot from him over the years. He was always willing to lend a hand, and to teach you things if you were willing to learn. I’ll always remember him as being kind and gentle. He will be missed here, but he’s with Margo now.
Jim will be missed – My family spent many hours with Jim and Margo.
Kevin Lane (Bonnie Baer, Tyler and Dylan)