James O'Rourke

It is with very great sadness that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of Jim O’Rourke, at the age of 70, on April 17, 2023.  Cherished by his wife of 45 years Patricia (née Creamer), his children Laurie and Thomas, daughter-in-law Kyley (née Duncan), and his grandchildren Hope, Keira, Gage, Seamus, Connor and Lochlan.  Most beloved older brother to Dan (Linda), Susan (David McColl), Tom (Ann) and Carol Ann (Bob Boothby).  Fondly remembered by his ten nieces and nephews.  Predeceased in 1992 by his mother Dolores (O’Brien) and recently by his father Thomas Francis in 2022, he will be missed by his father’s caring wife Gillian O’Rourke.  He will be sadly missed by his aunts Maureen (Tony Roberts), Audrey, Theresa (Andy Anderson), and Florence O’Brien, as well as uncle Terry O’Brien.  Many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephew, and all friends and relations valued his clear, level-headed advice and concern.

Jim was a prolific writer, political historian, and speechwriter.  Jim had two passions.  His first was his family, enjoying his children and grandchildren, our long time family bookclub, and family get-togethers.  His home was filled with books and a chess game was always a suggestion.    Jim’s second passion was politics.  Born in Montreal, he moved to Toronto in 1982 and immediately joined the Federal Liberal Party in Etobicoke Centre.  Jim was elected LPC(O) officer at the regional, executive and management levels beginning in 1986.  He served as President/Chair of the ECFLA Executive for a total of ten years up until 2022.  He delighted in being active in the last twelve federal elections; as well as the provincial party and was awarded the inaugural Volunteer Hall of Fame Award of the LPC(O).

Cremation has taken place.  Condolences appreciated on the website of the Reynolds Funeral Home – Bracebridge.  www. reynoldsfuneral.com.