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James (Jim) Speak will be missed by all. <br />
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His passing at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences C on September 25th, 2011 at the age of 75 has been devastating to his family and friends.<br />
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Jim was born on March 17, 1936 to Wilfred James Speak and Mary Margaret Dick in Port Arthur who he was predeceased by along with his brothers Fred and Raymond. Jim leaves behind his beloved children and their spouses, James Jr., Timothy Speak and Pauline Kuper, Beverly and Cordell Mullings, Lorna and Steve Kalibatas. His eyes lit up with adoration when he was surrounded by his grandchildren, Lacey, Farran and Parker and his great grandchild, Daniel, "Rocky". He also leaves behind his brothers and spouses, Bob and Marilyn Speak, Len and Irene Speak and sister, Mona Linton and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.<br />
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Jim had a strong work ethic, working at the age of 12 selling newspapers at "His" corner on Arthur and Cumberland Street. He then worked at various jobs such as a telegram messenger, an assembler at P.A. shipping where he proudly helped launch the Golden Hind. He also worked for CNR for 15 years. His greatest job of all was when he became self-employed opening Speak's Crest Shop in the 60's manufacturing jackets and crests for many clubs and organizations for over 25 years.<br />
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All Jim's endeavours demonstrated his love for all people, animals and sports. He seemed to live by the slogan, "Eat, drink and be merry." Jim enjoyed making people laugh and took great pleasure in "shock value." He was an entertainer who loved an audience whether he was being a comedian with his quick witted remarks or playing his guitar and singing simultaneously with bells bouncing off his shoulders and a tambourine at his foot. A ONE MAN SHOW.<br />
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Jim took pleasure in playing lob ball, golf and curling. In his earlier years he enjoyed coaching women's slow pitch and hockey, coaching his Bantam hockey team to a championship in 1971.<br />
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His strong interest in politics that drove him to run for alderman years ago. His slogan was, "Let Speak speak for you."<br />
More recently his favourite pastime was betting on horse races and winning at the casino.<br />
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We will miss the twinkle in your eyes, the dimples in your cheeks and your mischievous ways. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel, 21 N. Court Street. The service will be conducted by Jim's cousin, Ronald Rogalski from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. A reception will be held by his long time friend Susan Tucker at the Adanac Hotel, 227 Simpson Street, immediately following the service.<br />
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In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay. On-line condolences may be made at <a href="http://www.sargentandson.com/">www.sargentandson.com</a><a href="http://www.sargentandson.com" target="_blank">.</a></p>
