James Walter Day

James (Jim) Walter Day, also known affectionately as “Sparkie” to those who knew him well, 73, of Elliot Lake, passed away peacefully on August 1st, 2023, at St. Josephs General Hospital. Jim was born on February 7th, 1950, in Clarkson, Ontario, to Harold and Kathleen Day. He got his start in the grocery business early in life finding his way to Espanola and meeting his future wife, Debra Ricci. They married in 1973, and eventually relocated to Kirkland Lake. Together they raised their two boys: Thomas and Matthew.

Jim worked in the grocery business for over 50 years, serving the communities in Espanola, Kapuskasing, Kirkland Lake and Elliot Lake. Jim retired in 2019 after working 20 years at No Frills. He was well-known and respected in the communities he worked in for his hard work, honesty and friendliness.

Like his father, Jim loved gardening. He also loved spending time outdoors on Sunday afternoons fishing with his boys or practicing baseball with them in the front yard at their home in Kirkland Lake until it was too dark to see. Later in life he enjoyed his daily walks and giving treats to the neighborhood dogs, along with his weekly coffee socials with friends at the local McDonalds. He had a great sense of humor and always made people laugh with his jokes and stories. 

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Kathleen Day of Mississauga Ontario; his son Matthew Andrew James; and his brothers John and Andrew. He is survived by his wife Debra, son Thomas (Christine) of Regina, SK, granddaughters Morgan and Lauryn. He will be deeply missed by his sister Elizabeth of Burlington, and his many nieces and nephews, along with many other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Josephs General Hospital, Elliot Lake. A private interment and celebration of life will occur at a later date.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Alternative Funeral Services, Elliot Lake.