James Redpath MCLAY
MCLAY, James Redpath Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on February 18, 2017, in his 94th year. He is deeply mourned by his adoring daughters, Margaret and Allison, and by his beloved grandchildren, James, Kyle, Katy, and Taylor, and in-laws, Paul, Greg, and Dan. He will also be missed by family he loved in Scotland, England, and in California. He struck out from his small Scottish, coal-mining town in 1948 to immigrate to Canada, with his beloved wife Margaret. James’ romantic nature was expressed in his enduring pleasure and devotion in this 64 year marriage. James developed an early love of learning, reading, and adventure, which served as a lifelong inspiration to his daughters and grandchildren. He was a self-taught history buff and student of the stock market. His many travels included living in California for 13 years, fulfilling a childhood dream born of his fascination with the Hollywood he saw in the movies of the 30’s. He planned and treated his daughters and grandchildren to surprise trips to Europe, Hawaii, and the Caribbean, while he and his wife continued their longstanding joy in ballroom dancing on cruises and in clubs, into their 80’s. James’ generosity was legendary. One of his great pleasures was in planning and doing things for others, both family and acquaintances. We all benefited immensely from his kindness, unconditional love and support. He also had personal strengths and deeply held interests that sustained his sense of purpose, independence, and positive outlook into his last years. Despite the losses that come with such a great age, James’ attitude was one of ongoing pleasure in life and gratitude. In every important respect, he achieved what he had dreamed and hoped for in life. He created a truly loving home full of security, books, music, laughter, harmony and balance. He will continue to be an inspiration to his family and those who knew him, which represents a fitting legacy. A small memorial gathering is being planned for a later date. The family is especially grateful for the excellent and compassionate care he received from the staff at St. Joe’s Hospital in his last weeks. In lieu of flowers, we ask that any donations be made to St. Joseph Health Care Palliative Care. https://www.stjoesfoundation.ca/donation—palliative-care. Online tributes can be made at www.cresmountfennellchapel.com