James Wayne Rodger
Many knew Jim as an artist, but in his absence, we realize that his artistry extended far beyond the strokes of his paintbrush. Jim’s greatest masterpiece was the life he lived, and the world he created for family and friends that was saturated with his kindness, humor, compassion and creativity.
The canvas of Jim’s life began in Churchill, Manitoba. He is fondly remembered and deeply missed by his surviving siblings Joanne Crook (Rick), Wendy Rodger, Bill Rodger (Beverly), John Rodger (Kathie), and Naomi Bacon (Brian), as well as his many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his younger sister Nadine Klingelstein (Jim), his parents Naomi and Jock, as well as his nephews Gregory and Jeffrey.
Jim added to his canvas when he met his love and life partner Alison (nee Engs) while embarking on his BFA at Queen’s University. They met in the art studio, and what started as a solo project became a joint effort when the two wed in 1976. Jim is greatly missed by Alison’s siblings Roslyn Thom (David) and Philip Engs (Annie), as well as many nieces and nephews. Jim is predeceased by his brother-in-law and friend Russell Engs (Jan).
The focal point of Jim’s portrait was his family. He was devoted to creating the most beautiful world for Alison and their two daughters, Heather Rodger Lotz (Jeff) and Hannah Rodger. Life with Jim was filled with his love, and of course, his one-of-a-kind sense of humor. This focal point became even more vibrant for Jim upon the arrival of his beloved grandchildren, Everett Lotz and Bridget Lotz. This is truly where he shone as an artist of life, crafting memories for his family of walking dogs, watching sunsets at the cottage in Tobermory and adventures of traveling to destinations both near and far.
In the background was Jim’s career as an educator and principal. The importance of education and the arts were themes that echoed throughout the fabric of Jim’s professional life. He began as an art teacher at La Salle in Kingston, then moved to the K-W area in 1980 as the head of the art department at Waterloo-Oxford. Jim was an art consultant for the WRDSB before returning to the classroom at Southwood. He then moved on to become a vice-principal at both Kitchener Collegiate Institute and Waterloo-Oxford, before returning to KCI as principal for the remainder of his career.
The periphery of Jim’s life was rich and eclectic, and it added depth and colour to his world. Jim was a devoted listener of the CBC, and fervently followed Canadian politics. He cared passionately about social justice. Jim loved music, cooking, barbecuing, entertaining, reading newspapers and books, and traveling the world. One overriding interest for Jim was his love of dogs. He shared this passion with his grandchildren, and the three of them have spent countless hours playing, petting and talking to and about dogs. Jim’s dog Maisie misses him greatly.
Jim was forced to finish his masterpiece in his 72nd year after a brief but brutal battle with pancreatic cancer. In the stillness of his absence, we mourn the loss of a man whose life was a canvas painted with kindness, humor and integrity. Jim’s legacy of warmth and his zest for life continue to inspire, reminding us that true artistry lies in that way we live and love.
In lieu of flowers, Jim asked that donations be made to Lisaard & Innisfree Hospice (https://lisaardandinnisfree.com/support-us/) or Food 4 Kids Waterloo Region (https://food4kidswr.ca/donate/). Friends and family are invited to Jim’s Celebration of Life on Tuesday June 4 at 1:30 pm at St. James Lutheran Church in New Dundee, followed by a reception at the Dundee Golf & Country Club from 2:30 to 5:00 pm (remarks at 4:00 pm).
Livestream: https://hawkeyefilms.ca/in_memory_of/james-wayne-rodger/
Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com or 519.772.1237. Please visit Jim’s obituary notice on Facebook.