James (Jim) David Lauder

September 7, 1934 – September 17, 2023

Born in Innisfail, Alberta. Died in Cochrane, Alberta. Lots happened in between.

He was the second youngest of eight children to Goldie and Tom Lauder.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, all seven siblings, one son Troy, grandson Dale, nephews Rod, George, and Doug, and many, many friends.

He is survived by his lady, Marva, his daughter Shannon, sons Clayton and Will, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces and so many, many friends.

He spent most of his life in southern Alberta and a significant amount of time based in North Vancouver. He worked on ranches, in and around chuckwagons and racetracks, and on TV and movie productions. He loved to ride and go hunting in the hills. Much like his father and many others in his family, horses were the one constant in his life.

When it wasn’t all go-go-go: “places to go, people to see, horses to buy”, you could find him lying on the couch reading Louis L’Amour.

Jim was a stubborn old cowboy in many ways but he had a great sense of humour, was very generous, and especially in later years was more patient and curious about the world. He had a particular love for children and enjoyed coaching kids’ hockey and volunteering at a grandparent program in a local school. He would be the first to say he wasn’t perfect and had many regrets, but he sure did the best he could to look forward and try to do better.

Jim was incredibly fortunate to have so many friends. He loved to just have a coffee and chat, to attend what he called A&W University, and rarely turned down a chance to play cards or shoot a game of pool, go to a party, dance up a storm…

When he had to move to long term care, he was frequently visited by devoted family and friends and cared for so well by the staff at Bethany Care Centre. Despite the many losses he experienced, he could often still find a smile.

In his last days, Marva and Shannon were by his side. He was assured that he could rest and that his entry fees were paid.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at the Cochrane Legion (114 Fifth Ave, Cochrane, AB) on Thursday, October 19, 2023 from 1pm to 4pm.

Arrangements entrusted to Flo Simpson, Funeral Director, Cochrane Country Funeral Home – cochrane@piersons.ca 403-932-1039