James “Jim” Brian was born in Coronation, Alberta to parents Pearl (Eksandh) and Bill McKay on September 10, 1946. He grew up on the family farm at Silver Heights and attended the Brownfield School. He had one older brother Don and one younger brother, Dale. He was always the one who wanted to farm and in 1966 he started with his dad on a new farm south of Brownfield. He eventually had his own land and set up his own place close to his parents.
His interests included sports, especially pitching softball. He also loved music. He played the guitar and the steel guitar, playing in a band for a few years. In 1974 he married Peggy Lindmark and they had two children, Jason in 1975 and Tanya in 1977. In later years he spent many hours driving around the country in his van going to ball games, visiting the kids and enjoying the casinos. Unfortunately his health deteriorated and he spent the last three years in hospital and Continuing Care.
He was predeceased by his mother Pearl in 1985 and father Bill in 1986. He is survived by his son, Jason of Sylvan Lake and his daughter Tanya (Russ) of Red Deer; brother Don (Elaine) of Red Deer and their family Brenda (Kelly), Sherry (Jerry), David (Carla); and brother Dale of Coronation; as well as numerous relatives and many dear friends. The funeral service for Jim McKay was conducted on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 2 p.m. in the Trinity United Church, Coronation, AB with Reverend Sue Hertell officiating. Musicians, Barbie Evans, Margaret Evans, Allan Zinger and Nils Berg played for the congregational hymns “The Old Rugged Cross” and “How Great Thou Art”. Longtime friend John Forrest shared his tribute and memories. Special music was by Allan Zinger and Nils Berg “Mansion Over The Hilltop” and the recessional instrumental was “In The Sweet By and By”.
Active pallbearers were Dale Guse, Dwight Woody, John Forrest, Fred McDiarmid, Shorty Schmidt and Craig Brown; and honourary pallbearers were Jim’s family and friends.
Following the service the interment was held at the Coronation Cemetery. Lunch was served in the Lower Hall of the Church which was prepared and served by friends and neighbours and the Trinity United Church. Memorial donations may be given to the Coronation Cemetery Association, Box 115, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0, Coronation Hospital Foundation, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements. 1-888-578-2928. “Knowledge, Experience And Professionalism With A Personal Touch”
