Obituaries

1942 - 2015

• Mar 10, 2015
  Mr. Despot was a very special man who touched so many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
  
  With my deepest sympathy,
  
  Marilyn Bohn
• Mar 07, 2015
  With sincere sympathy Yvonne, Roger and family.
  
  You were the first landlords I had after leaving school and set the bar very high. My thoughts have been with you all since I heard the very sad news of Jim's passing. My most vivid memories are of how you both truly enjoyed life, lived it to its fullest. I hope you take comfort in all those memories in the days and years to come.
  
  He will be missed by all that knew him.
  
  Take Care!
  
  Cheryl(Rockvam)Steinson
• Mar 03, 2015
  To the Despot Family, Mr. Despot was the Vice-Principal at Ashcroft Secondary where myself and my siblings attended. Mr. Despot was a fair, down to earth man who had a great sense of humor and who instantly made you feel at ease when he smiled. We remember him with great fondness. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Remember his smile. With love, The Greenstreet/LeBlanc families (Brenda, Debbie, Jerold, Kenny)
• Mar 02, 2015
  I was hired right out of university by Jim in 1980 when he was looking after both schools in Clinton. He was a remarkable guide to me at the start of my career and for many years afterwards when I worked for him at Ashcroft Secondary. It was an honour to work for Jim. His support was constant and his fairness in dealing with students made a big impression.
  
  The years passed and the way that Jim and Yvonne connected to the whole staff was very special. In a way I think Jim was very much a magician, Yvonne his able assistant. He had charm and passion and he generated wonder in those of us that worked for him. What conversations, arguments, laughter, meals shared and drinks clinked. Overseeing it all was that mad magician.
  
  Shakespeare's best magician "Prospero” wraps up "The Tempest" with these words:
  
  Our revels now are ended: these our actors,
  
  As I foretold you were all spirits and
  
  are melted into air, into thin air; and like the baseless fabric of this vision, the cloud-capped towers, the gorgeous palaces, the solemn temples, the great globe itself, yea, all which it inherit, shall dissolve and like this insubstantial pageant faded, leave not a rack behind; we are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded with a sleep.
  
  I think Shakespeare missed a detail that applies to our friend Jim: when the curtain lowers and the lights dim, there is still the cast party. I'm sure we can agree that Jim will be the first to arrive at the party and the last to leave. Here's to you my magical friend.
  
  Barry Woods
  
  friend & former colleague
  
  
• Mar 02, 2015
  I first met Mr. Despot in 1984, and he would be my Principal for the next 5 years. I was very fortunate to be under his stewardship and part of the last class he would mentor through to graduation. During these impressionable years, I gained many valuable lessons, and my understanding of respect was clearly cemented in my being. To this day, etched firmly in my memory, I can see and hear Mr. Despot saying the words, "Mr. Dickinson". It wasn't about the words he used. It was all about how he spoke those words. He had a tone, one with a particular cadence and volume that made you stop like a deer caught in the head lights! However, right or wrong, you always had a chance to explain yourself. I learned you have to give respect to get respect. Thank you, Mr. Despot, for that all important life lesson. I hope to share more stories later with family, friends and classmates about the man we all loved to call JD.
  
  Harry Dickinson
  
  Class of 88
  
  
• Mar 02, 2015
  Suggestion for a Memorial saying: "dynamite comes in small packages", his dealings with students were firm, yet fair.
  
  His approach to life: Work hard, play hard, & have fun".
  
  His approach to dealing with others: Integrity.
  
  His unusual approaches to administration & life: Always trying to find a way to say "Yes", not, "No".
  
  Always being fair, supportive, and really encouraging, responsible risk-taking by all school staff to do better for students.
  
  Our favorite recurring joke about his wine making skills: I would ask, what vintage is that, Jim? He would always look at his watch and reply, "five minutes", with a big grin.
  
  Favorite memories: Working the door at Stampede dances with him, especially the time he was basically picked up (mostly peacefully) and moved aside by the head of a biker crew wanting to enter.
  
  Christmas Concert one year, Jim was the prancing reindeer in the "Six White Boomers" skit! Talk about a hit with students!
  
  Helping to secretly arrange for my visiting parents to attend another Christmas Concert where I was in a skit wearing an old Kinsmen convention costume, a powder blue floor-length prairie dress with matching bonnet! They were so proud!
  
  His willingness to design & wear Kinsmen convention costumes including prairie dresses, foam Roman Noses, the Sheet Family, the Sheiks, etc.
  
  He always hung a well-worn "Gone Fishing" sign on his office door when returning to A.S.S. after Kinsmen District Convention weekends.
  
  He and Ina blissfully getting into trouble together at the River Inn for participating in a karaoke duet and repeatedly swinging their microphones wildly, held only by the cords.
  
  Quite honestly, I've never met anyone else like Jim, and I doubt I ever will again. His loss will really hurt and be felt by many, but I remember the good times and Jim will always be with us.
  
  Dave Gory
  
  Friend & former colleague
  
  
• Mar 02, 2015
  My condolences to Yvonne and Roger and all of Jim's family and friends.
  
  I knew Jim as a teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent of Schools in the South Cariboo and Gold Trail school districts.
  
  Jim excelled at every role; he was compassionate, caring and a forward thinker. In his various roles in the educational community, Jim's first and foremost thought was, "How will this affect the students"?
  
  Rest in peace, Jim. You have left the world, but your values live on in your son Roger and through your influence on many students and colleagues.
  
  Marilyn Wokatsch
  
  President
  
  Gold Trail Teachers' Association (South Cariboo TA)
  
  1990-2001
• Mar 02, 2015
  I will always remember James as a man of laughter, fun and hard work. He loved his family and his friends and dedicated his life to them. One of my favorite memories of him is when Traci and I were teenagers and he convinced Raymond that we were responsible enough to take Grumps' beautiful handmade wooden boat for a spin to Sicamous. We took off so gaily in the sunshine. Our return trip was sombre indeed, as we'd run the boat into the dock in Sicamous and put a big hole in it, just above the waterline. (I won't say who was driving!) James never said a word, and somehow persuaded Raymond not to either. We never saw the boat again. Vonnnie, Roger, Stacey, Sierra and Colten, you will have a void in your lives that cannot be filled, but you were so lucky to have him, and so was everyone who knew him.
  
  Much love always,
  
  Sonja
  
  
• Mar 01, 2015
  Dear Yvonne and family, Jim was a special person in the education field. He was in the high school for all four of my children's school years. I had great respect for him and his quiet ways. In the years I have known him he was always a kind and special person. From my family to yours all the condolences we are feeling.
  
  Marilee Kiley and family
• Mar 01, 2015
  Dear Yvonne and family. I am very sorry to hear of Jim's passing; Ernie Dobson and I would certainly have been there today but Ernie passed away on January 28, 2015. He was very fond of Jim and enjoyed working with him through the Schools and also on the Board at Historic Hat Creek Ranch. I always enjoyed spending time with Jim and yourself. All the best, Linda Holland
• Mar 01, 2015
  Dear Yvonne and all the extended family. We are thinking of all of you especially today when so many will gather, not only in sympathy, but to celebrate and give thanks for James' life here on earth. What a gift he has been in so many lives! Our prayers have been with you, James and the family every day these past months and will continue throughout the days and months ahead. God Bless. Nat & Bev Moore (Northern Ireland)
• Mar 01, 2015
  Dear Roger and family, I am sorry I couldn't make it today but know that I have thought of you everyday. I remember my one and only time in the Principal's office and how supported I felt. I remember being able to crawl through your dog door if I ever needed a place to crash, and Roger has always been a dear friend to both my brother and I.
  
  Find a special star in the sky and remember! Hugs for you today. Love Laurie Oram (Jeffrey)
• Mar 01, 2015
  Auntie Yvonnie, sending much love to you today. Sorry we can't be there, but know how much we loved Uncle James. He has always been part of my special memories of the lake and Jordan and the girls both feel that as well,it won't be the same without him. I can't think about Uncle James without a smile on his face and a cheeky comment. Love to all of you. Janine, Jordan, Maddie and Cassi
• Mar 01, 2015
  Dear Yvonne: I was so shocked and sorry to hear about Jim's passing, he was indeed a very special man, always a good friend no matter where you met him. I enjoyed working with him when he was on Council and involved in so many ways in the betterment of his community and environs. Though he will be so terribly missed, Yvonne, may he rest in peace. He will always be with you, his memory is to be cherished. Sincerely, Ida Makaro
• Feb 28, 2015
  Dear Yvonne, Roger and family, it was with sadness we received the news of Jim leaving this plane of existence. Still finding it so hard to grasp.
  
  We are given the very special gift of life from our parents and how we choose to use that gift becomes more and more our choice as we are nurtured and then set free to become adults. Jim was someone who not only enjoyed his gift but shared it with the love of his life, his family, friends, colleagues, students and people he met only in passing.
  
  Throughout the time Daniel and I were fortunate enough to work with Jim we admired his tenacity, his continual professional growth and his determination to give of his special abilities in teaching, leadership and using plain common sense.
  
  We seldom saw Jim without a smile and we know that he is smiling now as he reads all these messages that come for someone who certainly deserves them for sharing his life gift with so, so many of us. He will be missed and always remembered by many in a myriad of ways.
  
  Yvonne, hold all the good memories, and take strength in the remembrance of the laughter and the love you shared. You were so loved and will miss James always, but your life gift has more time to give. Thinking of you. Linda and Daniel, sending you a gentle hug.
• Feb 28, 2015
  Yvonne and Family, our thoughts are with you at this time of mourning. Glen is in Calgary so we are unable to attend the service on Sunday. My thoughts of James over the past few weeks have been many. Glen and I have lost a neighbor, friend, counselor - brother. He was a member of my "in-law" club. We (and I mean Glen, myself and our Children) loved James for many reasons. His laugh, his genuine interest in us, his way of putting you straight when you were out of line, the best host and always welcoming. Annis Bay will honor and respect him forever. Janet & Glen Pilling, Laynie & Graham, Landen,Piper,Jeremy & Sarah, Nolan, David & Shauna, Connor.
• Feb 27, 2015
  Yvonne and Despot family, Jim was a man who made a difference. As an educator he touched the lives of all those he worked with, both colleagues and students in an encouraging and affirmative manner. He was a man of vision and integrity. His sense of humour always put things in perspective. His life's journey touched so many lives in a positive, optimistic, constructive way. He enriched my life and I have so many fond and funny memories of him. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Ingrid Heeley
  
  
• Feb 27, 2015
  We were so sorry to hear that James has passed away. Although we knew he wasn't well, we were hoping somehow that he would be able to be at the lake he loved so well again next summer.
  
  James was someone we looked up to and respected when we were young, and he never lost that place with us. We know he was the cornerstone of your family, and that it will be hard to go on without him. He had the ability of enjoy life, and it was great fun to be around him. He always made the kids feel special, and Chris and Jeff, as well as Adam and Anna, will always remember him, and the fact that he would take time to talk to them, and help them whenever he could.
  
  When we are here in Hawaii, we often think of how much he enjoyed your visits here, and remember walking down the street in Kona and being able to find you in a pub because we would hear the sound of James laughing and talking.
  
  We are still in Hawaii and so will miss the funeral, but will be thinking of you all, and send you our love,
  
  Knud and Kathy Sorenson
  
  
• Feb 27, 2015
  I was saddened to hear of Jim's death. The three years during 1975-1978 when Jim was Vice-Principal with Everett Krider as Principal were some of my best teaching experiences. Jim was a real go-getter and a real doer as well. He always gave 110% to his job, his students and his staff. I am left with very good memories of Jim.
  
  Al Shumaker
  
  former colleague
  
  Lanigan, Sask.
• Feb 27, 2015
  Yvonne, Roger & family, we are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. During the time we spent in Ashcroft Jim was not only one of our kids' favorite principals but Roger & Brian spent a lot of time together, back and forth between our homes. The part that he and you, Yvonne & Roger, played in our transition to Penticton meant a lot to all of us. Unfortunately we've lost touch but we sometimes still talk about the Despots! Jim was a kind and honorable man and will be sadly missed. With sympathy, Carolyn, Bob, Allison & Brian Preston
• Feb 26, 2015
  Yvonne and family,very saddened to receive the unexpected news; though we've been out of touch for some time, I have never forgotten how the Despot home was always a place for good times. Whether in the school or social setting, the positive memories have always remained. All our thoughts at this difficult time.
  
  Joe and Nora Varesi
• Feb 26, 2015
  To the Depots, deepest condolences on your loss. We will all remember JD as our favourite principal and Roger's awesome and patient Dad. He will be missed greatly.
  
  Steve Shorthouse
  
  
• Feb 25, 2015
  My condolences to the family, Mr. Despot will be missed but never forgotten. He was always a welcoming presence and I was privileged to know him.. Paul Sivik
• Feb 25, 2015
  To Jim's beloved ones, every time I recollect times with your precious Jim, I start to cry and laugh at the same time. All my memories of Jim are full of laughter and joy and peacefulness and all-inclusive acceptance. I have so many stories that I have told about my memories of Jim the last few weeks, that crack us all up. But perhaps my favorite is of 1990 when I was hired quickly to form another Grade 1/2 class over a weekend at the end of September due to an overflow of students. This fellow (Jim) came to my empty room that was supposed to be ready for a class by Monday. He was in weekend clothes, had wads of keys on a chain on his belt and was carrying a tape measure. He said he knew where to find some cabinets and storage shelves for me. I assumed he was the janitor and being very thankful for the help, proceeded to tell him dirty jokes. Yikes. I found out later he was actually somebody important, and he never let on. But we sure told a lot of jokes to each other over the years. Bless you Dear One, Jim. I will miss you so.
  
  Karyn Bryson
• Feb 25, 2015
  Yvonne,
  
  It is with great sadness that I heard the news about Jim. He will be sadly missed at our poker sessions. He always added fun to the group, even when he was winning or losing. His sense of humour even helped us when we were losing.
  
  A poker buddy,
  
  Al Yelland
• Feb 24, 2015
  To Yvonne and family,
  
  We are very deeply sorry to hear of James' passing. He will be missed. Blessings to all the family,
  
  Tony And Norete Lopes
• Feb 24, 2015
  Dear Mrs. Despot, Roger and family,
  
  I am very sorry to hear of your loss. While words can't take away the pain I hope that it helps at least a little to know that many people are thinking of you at this time. Mr. Despot was a very kind man who worked hard to positively influence the lives of many. I am grateful to be one of those people.
  
  My parents were pleased to see you before Christmas and would be at the memorial but they are out of the country at the moment. They send their sympathy.
  
  Regards,
  
  Lynn Mitchell-Dixon
• Feb 24, 2015
  Dear Yvonne & Family,
  
  There are too many empty lawn chairs at Annis, but the great memories will keep them unfolded and put away.
  
  Our deepest sympathy,
  
  Jim and Sue Huffman
• Feb 23, 2015
  Yvonne and Family,
  
  I was so deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jim. He was such a wonderful and truly caring man. He was loved by many and will truly be missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
  
  Please take care,
  
  Pat Vandrishe
• Feb 23, 2015
  Dear Yvonne, Roger and families,
  
  It is with the utmost of sadness that we learned of James' passing. What a tremendous loss - Annis Bay will never be the same. I remember with great fondness his caring nature and jovial laugh, I will miss him very much. Our deepest condolences on the loss of an amazing man.
  
  Dallas, Lisa & Brooklyn Greaves
• Feb 22, 2015
  Despot family, our condolences of your loss. Our paths meshed many times in many circumstances over the past 36 years. Jim was on council when they hired me in '79. He was on council when we got the go ahead for the water upgrade in '80. He directed me on the Kinsmen walking path above the hospital. We gathered at your house on several retirements and farewells. On the occasion of meeting anywhere when he returned here in retirement he was always the same Jim and we continued as though he had not left the area.
  
  Sheryn and Allen Midgley
• Feb 22, 2015
  Yvonne, how sorry Pat and I were to hear of Jim's passing. I will always remember him as a guy who loved life. You might remember that it was me who introduced you to Jim many years ago. Jim was also an usher at our wedding in 1965. Of all the guys I went to school with, Jim was the most successful in his career. Pat and I are celebrating our 50th anniversary this August 20th, and on that day we will be thinking of you and Jim (I'll raise a glass to him). We are thinking of you with love, and deepest sympathy at this time of grief. Gord and Pat Osborne.
• Feb 22, 2015
  Yvonne, Roger and family: We are on this earth for such a short time and a few of us make a deeply positive impact on our society...Jim was one of the few. He made a difference. That is the legacy he has left for you all. While you miss and mourn his physical presence, his spirit lives forever in the treasury of your memories and in the lives of those he touched. I send you my deepest and most sincere condolences. Judy Shorthouse.
• Feb 22, 2015
  Yvonne and Despot family,
  
  James was an amazing individual, thoughtful with a great sense of humor. On the lighter side,I will remember him "sub contracting" me to do his paper route. On the more serious side, I remember our back room risk assessment discussions when the BCTF was expelling Principal's from their federation. We will all share in your loss.
  
  With sympathy and condolences, John & Marilynne Rizzuti, Victoria, BC
• Feb 21, 2015
  Dear Yvonne and Roger, I was very sad to hear of JD's passing. I have many fond memories of all of you. He will always be a person I thought highly of. You're in my thoughts today and always. Big hug. Cyndy Rose nee Anderson
• Feb 21, 2015
  Yvonne and family: It is with deep shock and sorrow that I today saw the notice of Jim's passing. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless and know that James will be waiting for you to join him where the sun is always shining, and smiles are the order of every day.
  
  In deepest sympathy.....Lee and Sandra Desmarais... Ashcroft.
• Feb 21, 2015
  Yvonne we just learned today of James' passing. There are no words that will soothe your grief. Just know that we will remember James as the fun, caring, and amazing person we knew in Williams Lake. We hope that you,Margaret, and his family will remember the happy times. Our thoughts are with you. Hugs from us both. Charlie and Sheila Wyse
• Feb 21, 2015
  Yvonne, Roger and family, we are so sorry to hear of James' passing. We will miss his smiling face and great wave at the lake. Our condolences to you all.
  
  Rick and Colette
• Feb 21, 2015
  Terry and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to Yvonne, Roger, Stacey, Sierra and Colten. The world has lost a sIncere, loving, generous, intelligent, funny, happy, outgoing man who was always an asset in any kind of gathering. Oh James, how we will miss you. Love Gayle and Terry.
  
  P.S. Terry has a very fond memory of going by Annis on the train and seeing James sitting on the side lawn staring out on the million dollar view, probably enjoying a cool one.
• Feb 21, 2015
  A tremendous loss for all of us who had the honor of knowing James. I would like to take this time to ask you all to do a random act of kindness, for that is how James modeled his life and I am sure that would make him happy. Thoughts and prayers Yvonne, and to all family and friends of James. Greg French
• Feb 20, 2015
  To the Despot families,
  
  My sympathy to you all.
  
  Barbara {Fuoco} Abel - Kelowna,B.C.
• Feb 20, 2015
  Oh Yvonne,
  
  We are filled with sadness for you and Roger and all of us who had the privilege of being part of James' life. This wonderful photo and obituary makes it so official. We are thinking of you with love and deepest sympathy at this devastating time. Cherish the memories.
  
  Love and hugs,
  
  Maureen, Jeff and Heather
• Feb 20, 2015
  Yvonne,
  
  We are very sorry to hear of your loss. May you and your family find peace and comfort with your
  
  memories. We are out of the country but are thoughts are with you.
  
  With sincere sympathy, Fred and Karen Olsson
• Feb 20, 2015
  JD was a very special person with such a great sense of humour and also very kind. My heart goes out to you Yvonne, Roger, Stacey, Sierra and Colton. You will all miss him so very much. I hope that your many memories of happy times will help you.
  
  With love, Doris Hewitson
• Feb 20, 2015
  Sadness is with us all but secondary to the values and commitment Jim had demonstrated towards family, work, and play. His social, ethical and professional legacy is great. I can still visualize his toothy grin and hear his eloquence. I am out of the country but my thoughts are with Yvonne and Roger as you bid farewell to the physicality of Jim. His spirit, however, remains with all who were touched by his presence.
  
  Andy Kormendy
• Feb 19, 2015
  To Mrs. Despot,
  
  I can't begin to express how deeply sorry I am to hear of Mr. Despot's passing. My thoughts have been of you most of the past week. My heart goes out to Roger as well. Losing a close family member is never easy. I have many fond memories of Jim both throughout my school years and into adulthood. Please know that the Ashcroft community is mourning the loss of a great man.
  
  Take care and stay strong.
  
  Brenda Cahoon (nee Mann)
• Feb 19, 2015
  Mr.D truly cared about the students at Ashcroft Secondary School. He was a mentor to many and I know he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
  
  Sent with love and remembrance,
  
  Cindy Frank nee Herie

• Make Castanet Your Homepage
• News Tips
• Advertising
• Contact Us