Obituary of James Leonard Clancy

Clancy, James Leonard

With broken hearts, the family of Jim announces his passing on the beautiful fall day of Oct. 2, 2021 in his 83^rd year. He passed peacefully and with dignity at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry surrounded by love. He leaves, in mourning and gratitude, his wife and best friend Carol (Virgin), son Steve (Tammi), grandchildren Amanda (Jason), Adam (Elizabeth) and Jake, along with numerous great grandchildren.

Jim was a kind and generous man who was respected by all for the way that he treated everyone he ever had the pleasure to meet. Family and friends were cherished and loved by Jim. He would take the time to talk and show his interest in the lives of each one. Jim would easily engage in conversation with all people in his daily activities. Neighbours and casual acquaintances would confer to others the pleasure they had of conversation and interaction with Jim.

Jim’s career as an Educator with the DDSB took the same approach in treating both students and colleagues with respect and interest. With stops at many schools, Jim started as an Electronics teacher at Eastdale and ended in his retirement as a Vice Principal at Ajax High. The many friendships forged along with the kind words from students and colleagues left Jim with lasting rewards from this career choice. Jim could teach, but he could also do. Home and cottage renovations, jobs, repairs… his hands were rarely idle, and the results always impeccable.

Jim and Carol had the most wonderful friends and family throughout their lives together, both working and into retirement. They were blessed to become frequent travelers to many worldwide destinations, along with residing in Largo Florida for many winters. Activities enjoyed included poker, bridge, karaoke nights, golf and just about any occasion where friends and/or family would gather. While there are too many friends to mention, some of the longest dear friendships include Wayne and Veronica Patterson, Willi Jeyes, Cyndy Blanchard and Karen Buller. In-laws Jackie and Joe Ruggeri were both family and best of friends. Times at the cottage were cherished and forever memorable. The Ruggeri twins Molly Scarpelli and Amanda Ruggeri came along a little later, akin to daughters that Jim never had.

Born in Peterborough, Jim was fortunate to be part of large wonderful families from he and Carol. Incredible, kind and caring nieces and nephews, spouses and children were loved and appreciated.

Jim is survived by brother Bernard (Pat), sister Marion McDougall (Bud predeceased). He is predeceased by brother Fred (Jean surviving) and sister Helen Condon. Parents were Fergus and Mary.

Surviving in-laws are Ted Virgin (Theresa) and Jackie Ruggeri (Joe). Predeceased in-laws are Jean Hosking (Ken) and Doreen Lynchok (Red). Mother in law was Molly.

Oak Ridges staff and volunteers welcomed everyone as family, providing kind and compassionate care for Jim’s final 3+ weeks. Every hour possible was enjoyed in Jim’s company during this time, never without immediate family present. Family and friends were able to enjoy some wonderful visits. Our family will be forever grateful to each person at Oak Ridges who helped make a challenging circumstance into something very beautiful and memorable.

As per Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at the De Stefano Funeral Home, 1289 Keith Ross Dr., Oshawa (south side of Taunton Rd, east of Thornton Rd. by Oshawa Airport) from 3:00-4:30pm and from 5:00-6:30pm. Due to covid restrictions, guests must sign up for a time. Please call the funeral home at 905-440-3595. Please be aware that the visitations are now full.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Oak Ridges Hospice would be appreciated.  Memories may be shared at www.destefanofuneralhomes.ca

For those that are unable to attend the Visitation, please Join us on our Live Stream by CLICKING HERE