James Wilbert Culham Sr., aged 92, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
James is survived by his beloved wife, BettyAnn Culham; his children Beth Chartrand and Jim Culham (Sharon); BettyAnn's children, Lorne Gibb (Tina) and Bryan Gibb; his grandchildren Tyler Chartrand (Chrissy), Trevor Chartrand (Stéphane), Michael Culham, Christopher Culham (Erin), Robyn Nagy-Quinton (Jamison), Kelsey Gibb, and Ryland Gibb (Tamara); as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Wilbert and Hilda Culham; his sisters Mary Spear and Yvonne Stillar; his brother Dougal Culham; and his former wife, Mary Alice Culham, mother of his children.
Jim had a long and varied career that spanned several industries and decades. He worked for CP Rail, the Canadian Oil Company, and Shell Canada, where he rose to become Marine Bulk Manager in Parry Sound from 1964 to 1966.
In 1966 he returned to North Bay to launch his own business, Culham Fuels, a Texaco distributor. As the business grew, Jim expanded into selling recreational equipment, including Sno-Jet snowmobiles and chainsaws. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him into motorcycles-selling Honda, Yamaha, and Harley-Davidson-and the company evolved into JW Culham Enterprises Ltd. Under his leadership, it became one of the largest motorcycle dealerships in Northern Ontario.
Jim retired in 1983, shifting his focus to community and service through his involvement with the Shriners. He dedicated much of his time in Toronto and eventually became Potentate of the Rameses Temple, serving in that role until he fully retired in 1991.
Jim was known for his loving and funny nature, and he was deeply family-oriented, always holding a special place in his heart for his "grands and greats." He enjoyed Junior A hockey, snowmobiling, riding motorcycles, gardening, and spending time at the cottage with family. He had a lifelong love for animals, especially his dog Charcoal, whom he missed terribly.
Jim will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local Shriners.
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