March 4, 1952 – February 21, 2021
With great sadness, we regret to announce the sudden passing of our husband, father and grandfather, Jim. With fond memories, he leaves his wife Gwen (nee Benjamin), his daughter Lauren, husband Pip (Henry) Boulet and grandchildren Benjamin and Chloe, his daughter Susan, husband Matthew Gnutel, and their Saint-Bernard, Winnie. He was predeceased by his parents, Michael (Yeo) and Mary (Mason) Telencoe and in-laws James and Marion Benjamin. Jim was a big Jets fan, Bomber fan, golfer, curler, crossword enthusiast, and rock-and-roll guru.
Jim grew up in East Kildonan as the only child to his parents Yeo and Mason. His grandfather started D.E. Adam’s Coal Company, where his father was also employed. Jim and his family had many fond memories of summers spent at Linklater Camp, a fishing lodge built and run by the family. Later, Yeo and his brother Bob Telencoeran the Niel & Watt Esso in East Kildonan. Jim graduated from River East Collegiate and went on to earn a Geography degree at the University of Winnipeg. Soon after graduation, a friend suggested he apply for a job with the City of Winnipeg. There he worked as a House Numbering Technician. His crowning achievement in this position was when he was interviewed on one of his favourite AM radio stations, CBC, about how house numbers are assigned. Upon completion of his Draftsmen Certificate, he was promoted to a Zoning Officer, and finally working as a Development and Planning Officer until retirement.
It was at work where he met Gwen. He would joke later that he was “trapped” by her before he realized their age difference. Jim and Gwen dated for a couple of years before he proposed at a red light on their way home from work one winter. They were married in August of ’85. In 1991, Jim and Gwen built their home in North Kildonan. Jim enjoyed organizing Canada Day block parties with the neighbours, which always ended with a grand fireworks display. His inner pyromaniac absolutely loved picking out and setting off the fireworks: the bigger the bang, the better. Gwen, being a born country girl from small town, Springside, Saskatchewan, had the daunting task of teaching Jim, a city boy through and through, all about the country life. He had a real love and appreciation for the Saskatchewan prairies and all the golf courses he could find in them. In their retirement, Jim and Gwen took a few winter escape holidays to Mexico and Jamaica. Jim was at first reluctant, thinking how could he possibly enjoy lounging around in the hot sun all day without a care in the world? Luckily, he quickly adapted to the beach lifestyle and was very good at it.
He made many life-long friends from the East Kildonan neighbourhood where he grew up; if one were to count the good times they had, they would surely circle the globe ten times around. Jim was a die-hard Blue Bomber fan. Some of his fondest memories were from Grey Cup parties. He attended many Grey Cup games (a lot!) with his group of like-minded football fan friends. We can only imagine the antics that were had. Gwen can recall picking Jim up from the airport, and they were riding the luggage carousel. Jim was beyond ecstatic when he watched the Bombers WINthe Grey Cup in 2019 with his good friends. When it comes to hockey, Jim was first a Habs fan, which influenced his daughter Susan to become a Habs fan, but he was a true blue Jets fan at heart. In 1997 when the Jets left, Jim was devastated (he had already lost the Montreal Expos!), but he made sure both of his daughters went to a Jets game in their last season so they could always say they had seen them play. He never thought the day would come that the Jets actually return to Winnipeg. The task of securing season tickets was left to his son-in-law Pip, who thankfully succeeded in getting two, pretty great seats. Finding out he was a Jets season ticket holder once more was one of his happiest moments.
Jim absolutely loved playing slo-pitch; the last team he played for was the Burns Smokie Dogs as a catcher. Sadly, his knee gave out and, as his family grew, his priorities changed. Jim loved to play golf all his life. He grew up playing at Rossmere Country Club and, in recent years, was a member of the SOS Golf League. He enjoyed his regular Wednesday golf game with the league, always at a different course in Manitoba. Jim also curled in the Metro Curling League, which somewhat left Gwen and the girls in the lurch on Wednesday game nights, as Jim had always taken on the responsibility of cooking dinner for the family. It may not have always been gourmet (and possibly led to Lauren becoming a vegetarian for a few years), but he always made sure the family was fed. As kids, if Lauren or Susan asked, “Dad, what’s for supper?” he would always say something like “Dinosaur” or “Kangaroo” (spoiler: they tasted a lot like chicken!). Since Jim was curling every Wednesday, Gwen and the girls began “Wednesday Night Dinners,” where they would order in or eat out since the cook had the night off. As his cooking skills diversified, he loved to experiment with all different kinds of spices and recipes, the spicier, the better. He never ceased perfecting the NY steak (even in the dead of Winnipeg winter), or despite Gwen’s protests, cooking seafood and curries.
Jim’s son-in-law Pip had a very fitting nickname for him, “Grandpa Mandshein,” after the Winnipeg classic rock radio DJ, Howard Mandshein, who is known for his anecdotes of rock music. You could name any classic rock band and Jim (Grandpa Mandshein) would say, “Oh them? Yeah, I saw them in an old pub one night…that was the first time…then I saw them again when Stevie Wonder was the opening act…”. It would go on and on and on. You name the band; he saw them and had a story to go along with it. If by chance he hadn’t seen a band, you can bet he knew someone who had or he had a wild story about how he was supposed to go to the show but ended up doing who knows what instead. His girls Lauren and Susan grew up on rock-and-roll blasting in the house from 7 a.m., and a strong dislike for country music (it’s just in their blood.) They were taught from a young age all about Lou Reed and Ray Davies. The Kinks were always Jim’s favourite band and the soundtrack of many road trips to Springside, Saskatchewan to visit Gwen’s family. He wasn’t only about classic rock either. Jim was always up to date with the new acts, even taking Susan to the Franz Ferdinand and Death Cab for Cutie concert. No doubt he would still be going to concerts if he could.
Jim was proud of his two girls, Lauren and Susan, and all they have accomplished. Lauren has been a grade 7 French Immersion Teacher for over ten years and built a beautiful home and family with her husband Pip and their children, Benjamin and Chloe. Susan completed medical school in 2018 and is currently a Pediatric Resident at the Winnipeg Children’s Hospital. She married her husband, Matthew Gnutel, in 2016, and they are proud owners of a Saint-Bernard named Winnie. As a child, Susan used to cry to Gwen about Jim’s allergy to pet dander, as she wanted nothing more than a dog. Jim eventually caved and let the girls get a pet cat named Milo, with the promise that he would never have to buy Gwen another gift. When Susan and Matthew purchased and renovated their first home, Susan’s childhood dream of having a dog, a Saint-Bernard, came true. Jim always loved when Winnie would come over for visits; suddenly, his allergies weren’t really a bother. Another fond memory of Jim’s with Susan was when they were golfing at Shooters, and Jim got his first Hole-in-One. Lauren’s golfing experience with her dad was not as exciting as it ended with her laying in the sprinklers from heatstroke.
Jim’s greatest joy was his grandkids, Benjamin and Chloe. He took care of Benjamin when Lauren returned to work after maternity leave. They had a nice little daily routine, watching the Price is Right, going for a walk, stopping at certain bushes or trees that Benjamin would reach for, and playing at the park. He often said of Chloe, he had to do a double-take as she reminded her so much of Lauren growing up. He would sit with them and play whatever they wanted: mini-hockey, Playdoh, Lego, Barbies, or whatever game they had invented together. All they had to do was ask and maybe wait for Grandpa to finish his coffee, and off they would go.
Jim looked forward to his regular phone conversations with his cousin Violet Halicki as they tried to solve the problems of the world and his Uncle Dick Mosoronchon, recounting stories of the past and their new experiences. Jim is survived by many cousins and aunts whom he would have loved to see again, as well as his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. His nieces and nephews have many fond memories about their Uncle Jim; his air trombone dance moves, restaurant ordering antics, water sliding skills, love/hate relationship with technology and just how much he would pester them at times.
Though we are shocked and grief-stricken, there are few things we know for certain; if he were still here with us, he would be our shoulder to cry on, the silly smile to give us hope, and the joker to (try to) make us laugh, all while blasting The Kinks. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration will be held in the summer complete with loud music, dancing, beer and of course, fireworks. If friends would like, a donation in memory of Jim to the Children’s Hospital is welcome.
“Because celluloid heroes never feel any pain and celluloid heroes never really die.” – The Kinks, Celluloid Heroes
15 thoughts on “James Telencoe (Jim)”
Gwen, I have many fond memories of curling in the Metro Curling League, at the Civic Spiel and “Metro” Golf Tournaments at my place in Sandy Hook with Jim and you in attendance. I remember when Jim, and Jerry and Brad dropped by to visit with me one summer shortly after Larry passed – they were on their way to the golf course. You have my deepest sympathy. It looks like you have a beautiful family to help comfort you. sending you warm hugs – Carol
Gwen, Jim bonded with me on 3 fronts- SOS golf, Metro Curling, and Jim introduced me to Bill Moore and the Hamilton Boys at the 1992 Grey Cup. Jim’s sense of humour was um..well on the enjoyable but corny side. I first met him between periods at Jets games in the 70’s along with Malc, Julian and yourself. He was fun to play golf and curling with and we will all miss him. It’s so nice that he left behind a wonderful family to support each other in the days ahead.
What a beautiful life lived to the fullest. I feel blessed to have gotten to know Jim over the last years.
His curiosity and joyful zest for life were absolutely contagious. I loved to set up camp with a cocktail next to him at Christmas to listen and laugh along to his great stories. He was so warm, easygoing, and such fun to be around. Jim was a truly special man who will be greatly missed.
Brendan and I send all of our love from Berlin and wish so badly we were there to support you during this time. We’re thinking of you always.
Like you all, we’re shocked and gutted by the loss of our one-of-a-kind Uncle Jim. We always enjoyed our visits to Winnipeg, where Uncle Jim would be a steady presence cooking in the kitchen and at the breakfast/dinner table and basement TV.
Highlights of visiting with Uncle Jim included talking sports, city issues, and music, of course. Discussions about music would often go late into the night, with Zev and Jim exchanging, “Have you ever heard [insert band name here]?”. Although their tastes varied, they could agree that most of the best music was made more than 30 years ago. Another area of consensus was that the Jets were mediocre.
Uncle Jim’s apparent gruffness was betrayed by his sweet demeanor toward all of the kids. We always got a kick out of him referring to “that cat” or him trying to get us to try his latest home brew. He would pester and annoy his nephews and nieces, but now those moments are some of our best memories. The air-trombone will live forever!
The closeness of the extended Benjamin clan was encouraged and fostered by Uncle Jim. We treasure our visits to Winnipeg and we hope to see our beloved Winnipeg family as soon as possible.
Our deepest heartfelt condolences to you and your family Gwen.
Cheryl and Barry
On the loss of Jim Telencoe, Sunday, February 21, 2021.
The end of an old friend’s life is never anything good. To lose him during a pandemic like none of us has seen before is downright obscene. No gathering of family and friends to honour him, to tell all the old stories again, to raise a glass to his time on earth, no hugs for a family that needs them. Nothing. A small family service, a note in the paper.
Jimmy you deserve more. I would stand up and tell about the time when we went to the Scandavian Pavilion brewery tour. Well maybe not. Or the time Frank and I woke you up on Mostyn Place. Mmm – no not that one either. I might reminisce about all those days at U of W and visits to the Geography Department stairwell. I would talk about our road trip to Milwaukee to see the Rolling Stones.
I could tell about you proudly introducing me to Gwen for the first time at what used to be Gabby’s on Portage, later the Palomino Club. I could tell about you introducing me to Diane Roy in the basement room at the Zoo one New Year’s eve. I could tell about meeting her again when I was best man at your wedding 35 years ago and never leaving her side since.
But we cannot get together and share as we are meant to at a time like this. Screw you covid.
What I can do is go and buy a 6 of icy cold Standard, crack one open and raise it to you my friend.
You live on in all of us but especially in Gwen, Lauren, Susan and your grandkids. You were so proud of all that they are!
Adios me gonzo compadre.
Well it’s time to say good bye Jim, but not to forget all the great times we spent as a family.You gave use so many laughs and great times to remember. Soon we will remember with smiles and not tears.hope the menus up there are not to big, or you will never makeup your mind. Love to Gwen and Lauren and Susan, Pip and Matt, Benjamin and Chloe and Winnie.
Gwen, Susan, Lauren & families,
We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to all of you upon hearing of Jim’s passing.
Jim was a very close friend.
The close friendship began 50+ years ago with Jim & myself meeting while we were both attending high school at River East Collegiate. We shared the love of music, concerts and many memorable and often magical outings with family & friends.
Jim was an original fun brother who we could always count on to join in … throughout the years on our weekly menu of hijinks with our group of friends.
He participated in our legendary bus trip, in August 1971, spending a month living together in a converted bus travelling through the U.S. to New York City, Boston, Montreal and back to Winnipeg. We were all members of the Canadian version of The Merry Pranksters on our bus called Ed’s Turkey Farm.
Another cherished memory was a drive to Minneapolis that Jim and I took to go see Led Zeppelin in the middle of the night, in the middle of winter during a snow storm. Almost as special as seeing Led Zeppelin was us driving through the pedestrian only shopping mall of downtown St. Cloud MN. looking for a gasoline station.
During those years, we also played many a game of Risk with each regular player in our group establishing a permanent name for their armies. Jim’s armies were always “The Black Pigs” Lol.
Our friendship continued through our marriages and raising of children. While we no longer went to Minneapolis together, we still enjoyed getting together with family & friends. BBQ’s taking the place of going to concerts.
Jim loved the Blue Bombers and for years had a group of up to 6 of us (regulars) watching, laughing and armchair coaching the games at his home. There was always plenty of food and drink to go along with the healthy diet of F-Sharps. If the food was not hot the going’s on were.
We will dearly miss Jim and will often think of him and remember the good times had.
As close friends, we celebrate this good man’s life.
Kabez Family,
Larry, Norine, Brady & Erin
I’ve known Jimmy T since I started going out with “Smiley” – 5 decades ago. Jim was a constant in our lives, be it parties, barbecues, football and especially New Year’s Eve 2000 with his wonderful fireworks.
He’ll be missed.
Deep condolences to Gwen, Laure, Susan and families
Thank you for sharing Jimmy’s life journey, which was such a wonderful tribute to his memory. As a joyful observer, I was swept away by the way he lived and shaped his life.
I always looked forward to our pleasurable phone chats. We often recalled past happenings and traded ideas on both profound and silly subjects!
Like everyone that knew him, I will sincerely miss him.
With all my love and sympathy to you and family –
Violet Halicki
Every time I saw Jim over the years on return visits to Winnipeg, he was the same warm and welcoming friend. Time and distance never seemed to change that. As youngsters, the hours we spent in his basement listening to music, the endless nights of driving about, being together at university (although the times between classes was more fun); these are still some of my fondest memories.
To my old childhood friend Jimmy T – you will be sorely missed.
My deepest condolences to Gwen, Susan and Lauren.
I had the great pleasure of meeting Jim at one of the family Christmas gatherings about 18 or so years ago, where I was introduced as his niece’s “significant other”. I was instantly welcomed by Jim. His all around energy, stories and humour were some of the reasons that I truly enjoyed his company.
One of my most vivid memories of Jim, was the first time he offered me a whiskey. I asked him what he had for mix? I had no idea he wanted to have a scotch! Jim quickly straightened me out and explained that you don’t mix this!!
Over the years we got to hang out at weddings, family trips, while seeing Roger Waters at the Saddledome, and even got out a couple times on the golf course! We loved having a laugh over a few beer, and just shooting the breeze.
Jim, you will be missed.
Our sincere condolences to Gwen, Lauren, Susan, and families. We are thinking of you.
I first met Jim in the fall of 1968, when he was walking out of the Fort Garry Community Club with the top of my bass amplifier. After a little interrogation, I realized he was helping me get my equipment out of the club house where there was a little action going on inside. We were instant friends!
Jim and I got to know each other at River East Collegiate…….hanging outside at the back of the school smoking cigarettes, laughing and joking. And music was always a big part of our conversations. I remember being in Jim’s basement, listening to the first Pink Floyd album…….I thought he was pretty cool. In grade 11, I sat behind Jim in Mr. Oliver’s class. When we were told to pass our history tests around the classroom for someone else to mark, Jim and I always managed to get one another’s. We did well on those tests!
I will always remember going over to Jim’s cool place on Mostyn………some really good parties there, and many visits to Jim’s apartment on River Ave. It was just a little after this I met Gwen for the first time. A group of friends were meeting at Harv’s farm for a party and Jim and Gwen picked Jo-Anne and I up in his Volvo. We knew Jim found the right partner.
Even though work and family can sometimes keep us from getting together, when we did, I always looked forward to seeing Jim. I will always cherish.those wonderful house parties hosted by: Les and Kathi, Larry and Norine, Robin and Lorraine, Brian and Les and, of course, at Guitarland. Jim was always a big part of the fun.
Jim…..I will always love and remember your sense of humour; your infectious smile; your warmth and your kindhearted ways.
A Big Hug to Gwen, Lauren and Susan.
Zartog 5 forever
My sincere condolences. In the short time I knew Jim he left a lasting impression on me. I will always remember discussing good music, great homebrew (I liked it!) and him giving me life advice. Seeing the great family he co-created, I will be well served to remember his advice.