Obituary of Jim Harold Overall

July 9, 1931 - London, England

April 19, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Jim Overall, beloved husband and father, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the age of 92 years.

Jim was born in London, England, within the sound of Bow Bells. The son of a bookbinder and London cabbie, he understood early that life required grit and determination, two qualities he had in spades. It also helped that he had a cheeky spirit. With that characteristic twinkle in his eyes and quick wit, you knew this was someone special.

An avid sportsman, Jim played football, cricket, hockey, golf, and was even known to run with an occasional bull. After his service in the RAF, his career as a cost engineer and project manager would take him across the world (London, Algeria, India, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, and Canada).

Jim met the love of his life, Maura, and they built a family together. Calgary would become the family’s new home. He so loved the mountains and big blue skies. Always a fan of western movies, the rugged landscape of Alberta was a perfect place to call home.

Jim’s motto in work and life defined him…find a way, and make it happen. That mindset saw him through many a hardship. He was a strong man, always. Above all though, Jim loved, cared for and protected his family. He had a giant heart and generous spirit.

Besides his loving wife Maura, Jim is survived by his sons, Steven, Mattie, and James (Lucia); daughter Caroline (Glenn), and grandchildren, Gemma, Jack, Sam, and Teddy. Jim was predeceased by his parents, George and Edith; brothers, Wally (Vicky) and George (Maysie); and son Christopher.

It’s impossible to sum up Jim’s extraordinary life in a few words. The family has prepared two videos to celebrate his journey more fully. (Click to view the video tributes here and here).

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB) on Sunday, April 21, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB), on Friday, April 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. with a graveside service to follow at Cochrane Cemetery (Range Rd 42, Cochrane, AB).

Following the Graveside Service, you are welcome to join the family for a reception lunch at Flores and Pine (254028 Bearspaw Road, Calgary, AB), where we can share stories of Jim and laugh and cry together.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Jim’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Jim’s family here.

In living memory of Jim Overall, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.

Click to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Jim Overall's Service