FREW, James
It is with profound sadness that the family of James McGhee Frew (Jim) announces his recent passing in his 90th year. Born in Scotland to James and Sophia Frew, Jim was the beloved ‘big brother’ of Lillian, Morag and the late Marion. He was always proud to share that he belonged to the same Masonic Lodge as the poet Robert Burns. Jim apprenticed as a tool and die maker before emigrating to Canada in 1957 with his lifelong buddy Dennis. Settling in Toronto, he met and married Margaret Card, his wife of 66 years. Jim was the cherished father and father-in-law of Linda and Paul Hruska, Nancy and Scott Mooney, and Peter and Pauline Frew. He was loved and will be dearly missed by his grandchildren (who all learned “how to make a sausage roll”): Ryan, Sarah (Mark) and Kevin Mooney, Valerie, James and Kimberly (Geoff) Hruska, and Mackenzie and Pierson Frew. During his 35-year career with the Public Works Department of the City of Toronto, Jim worked his way up to Director of Research Services, contributing his ingenuity, practical inventions and problem-solving spirit to countless municipal projects. Upon retirement, he and Margaret kept busy at their New Beginnings farm near Holstein, Ontario. The farm became the beloved family gathering place for decades. At the farm, he could be found tinkering at any of his many workbenches, on his tractor, feeding his various types of poultry, tending his fishpond, splitting firewood, mixing cement and occasionally roasting a pig - always fixing, improving, or planning the next project. Jim served three terms as Councilor Frew for the Township of Southgate. He brought thoughtful leadership as Chair of the Protection/Inspection and Police Services committees and contributed to local doctor recruitment, waste management and economic development initiatives. His commitment was well known in the community. With the extraordinary support of health care professionals, Jim fought valiantly, but the body that had been so strong throughout his life was ready for rest. We are grateful for all he did for us and all he meant to each of us. To quote him, “it’s time for a glass of wine”. A private family service has been held.
“A heart-warm, fond adieu.” -
Robert Burns
In memory of Jim, donations to the Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation of Mount Forest would be appreciated by the family. Donations and online condolences may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com
