It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Captain Gary James, a devoted husband, loving father, proud veteran, and accomplished airline pilot, who left us far too soon on August 3, 2025, at the age of 63 years.

 

Gary was predeceased by his father Frederick James in 1981 and his mother Carmen Tardif in 2007.

 

Born on June 4, 1962, in Port Authur, (Thunder Bay) Ontario, Gary dedicated his life to serving others — first in the Royal Canadian Air Force where he served with honor and distinction. Then, Gary served with integrity and professionalism as a civil aviation inspector with Transport Canada. Finally, fulfilling a childhood dream, Gary served as a commercial airline pilot for Air Canada, safely guiding thousands of passengers across skies around the world.

 

His deep love of flight was matched only by his unconditional love for his family. He was a devoted and caring husband to Anik, his cherished ‘Cocotte’. He was the kind of man who showed his love not just in words, but in everyday acts of care. Whether it was brewing her morning coffee, a reassuring smile across the dinner table, or a quiet presence that brought peace, his devotion was always felt. Gary was also a loving and dedicated father to his young sons, Samuel and Gabriel. His world revolved around them, and everything he did was rooted in a fierce, unwavering devotion to their happiness and future. Whether he was splashing in the pool, building a backyard ice rink, or sharing quiet bedtime stories, Gary brought warmth, joy, and strength into every moment with his boys. He taught them through example—how to be kind, to laugh often, and to face life with courage and love.

 

Gary also had a deep love for the great outdoors. A man of quiet strength and deep curiosity, Gary found joy in the simple wonders of life: the rustling of leaves on a wooded trail, the serenity of a still lake at dawn, and the call of birds overhead. An eager fisherman and bird lover, he cherished his time in nature and passed that love on to his children through countless family outings, camping and early morning fishing trips, and long hikes in all seasons.

 

When Gary wasn’t flying, he also found much pleasure in the kitchen. He was passionate about food!

 

Another way to show his love was often found in the meals he cooked and the sweet treats he baked — whether it was a perfectly seasoned spaghetti sauce, a loaf of fresh bread, or the crème brûlées his family requested at special gatherings. Everything he prepared was made special by his hands and heart.

 

Additionally, Gary was a passionate hockey fan and goalie, known for his sportsmanship, sense of humor, and love of the game — whether watching from the stands, assisting on the ice, or lacing up his skates for a weekend game with his family and friends.

 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anik Boileau James, his twin boys Samuel and Gabriel James, his sister Carol (Robin), his brother Brian (Margaret), his parents-in-law, Rita Côté, Léo and Danielle Boileau, his brothers-in-law, Daniel Boileau and Martin Boileau (Jennifer), his Goddaughter, Évangeline, his nieces and nephews, Madéline, Luciana, Mattéo and Miguel, and his Godson Aidan Choi. In addition, he is survived by a wider circle of family, friends, and colleagues. Those who knew Gary will remember his genuine heart, generous spirit, and the way he could light up a room with his presence. He had a quiet strength and a steadfast loyalty that made him someone others could always count on.

 

A memorial service will be held at a later date in the fall, as the family is preparing to move out of province.

 

If you wish to make a remembrance contribution in lieu of flowers, please consider the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation as your charity of choice in honor of Gary.

 

Captain Gary James took to the skies with courage and grace. Though he has taken his final flight, his legacy will continue to soar in the hearts of all who knew him.

 

Donations may be made directly to:

 

Canadian Men's Health Foundation

233 W 1st Street

Unit # 210

North Vancouver, BC V7M 1B3