Obituary for Jim Cosgrove
COSGROVE, James ‘Jim’ Russell — Of Havelock, Ontario, passed peacefully Saturday, August 5th, 2023, in his 85th year, just after sunrise in the loving presence of his family.
Dad was born on the auspicious day of October 31st, 1938, the youngest child of the late Joseph and Clara Cosgrove (nee Emery), who fondly told Dad he was brought by the Halloween Witch.
Until earlier this year, Dad lived his full life in Havelock. He grew up on a farm and joined Blue Mountain Mine in its inaugural year (1955) at the age of seventeen, enjoying his work until an unexpected rockfall in 1994. A timely intervention by coworkers and an airlift to Sunnybrook Hospital saved his life and the tendons of his crushed fingers.
This was significant as Dad was a talented musician, playing and composing guitar music by ear and memory. It was with great determination that he regained mastery of the fast, flatpicking style that he was known for, going on to release multiple CD’s. He was a favourite at fairs and jamborees and played regularly with Havelock Jammers.
As an active member of the Catholic Church, dad served with the local Knights of Columbus and managed Our Lady of Mount Caramel Cemetery.
Travellers on County Road 46 will remember the creative installations that Dad and mom presented in their front yard year-round, earning them a feature in Cottage Life Magazine.
Dad had a life-long love of the outdoors. He spent many hours walking the land, foraging, hunting and learning bird calls, and spent quiet hours on the water fishing. He would regale us with stories of the mines, and memorable snowmobile and three-wheeler trips. He was a poet at heart and a beautiful writer of letters.
Beloved husband of Anna Bernadette Cosgrove (nee Lynch) for 61 years. Loving father of Julie and Diane, grandfather of Kieran and brother of Dawn Cosgrove (P.E.I). Cherished uncle, cousin and friend. Predeceased by brother William Cosgrove (2006) (Elaine) and sister Marie Fairman (2019) (Glen).
Our family extends deep gratitude to Havelock Community Care and VON Day Program, Community Paramedic Services, Campbellford Memorial Hospital, Father David & Biskit, neighbours, family and friends, and to Norwood Pleasant Meadow Manor residents and staff for their compassionate care.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mount Caramel Church in Havelock on Sat. Aug 26th at 1pm, followed by a 2pm Celebration of Life Reception at the Town Hall. Music and stories are welcomed .
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Community Care Havelock or Campbellford Memorial Hospital .
Dad was born on the auspicious day of October 31st, 1938, the youngest child of the late Joseph and Clara Cosgrove (nee Emery), who fondly told Dad he was brought by the Halloween Witch.
Until earlier this year, Dad lived his full life in Havelock. He grew up on a farm and joined Blue Mountain Mine in its inaugural year (1955) at the age of seventeen, enjoying his work until an unexpected rockfall in 1994. A timely intervention by coworkers and an airlift to Sunnybrook Hospital saved his life and the tendons of his crushed fingers.
This was significant as Dad was a talented musician, playing and composing guitar music by ear and memory. It was with great determination that he regained mastery of the fast, flatpicking style that he was known for, going on to release multiple CD’s. He was a favourite at fairs and jamborees and played regularly with Havelock Jammers.
As an active member of the Catholic Church, dad served with the local Knights of Columbus and managed Our Lady of Mount Caramel Cemetery.
Travellers on County Road 46 will remember the creative installations that Dad and mom presented in their front yard year-round, earning them a feature in Cottage Life Magazine.
Dad had a life-long love of the outdoors. He spent many hours walking the land, foraging, hunting and learning bird calls, and spent quiet hours on the water fishing. He would regale us with stories of the mines, and memorable snowmobile and three-wheeler trips. He was a poet at heart and a beautiful writer of letters.
Beloved husband of Anna Bernadette Cosgrove (nee Lynch) for 61 years. Loving father of Julie and Diane, grandfather of Kieran and brother of Dawn Cosgrove (P.E.I). Cherished uncle, cousin and friend. Predeceased by brother William Cosgrove (2006) (Elaine) and sister Marie Fairman (2019) (Glen).
Our family extends deep gratitude to Havelock Community Care and VON Day Program, Community Paramedic Services, Campbellford Memorial Hospital, Father David & Biskit, neighbours, family and friends, and to Norwood Pleasant Meadow Manor residents and staff for their compassionate care.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mount Caramel Church in Havelock on Sat. Aug 26th at 1pm, followed by a 2pm Celebration of Life Reception at the Town Hall. Music and stories are welcomed .
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Community Care Havelock or Campbellford Memorial Hospital .