Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada – It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of James “Jim” Potton of Winnipeg, Canada on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the age of 75.
His passion for the outdoors drove his desire for becoming a part of the Forestry/Parks Sector. After receiving a Masters degree in Recreational Management from the University of Minnesota he spent six years as a Park Ranger in Hawaii, Wyoming and Montana before going north to Canada in 1968 to work for the Alberta Provincial Government as assistant deputy minister of parks, then to Manitoba as director of parks. He was director of the Manitoba Forestry Association for over 25 years but his passion was fueled by a high school program called Environthon and served as chair since its inception in the Province in 1997. He also represented Manitoba on the North American Environthon committee and served as director for three years.
Jim will be remembered for his passion, vision, dedication and his ability to forge strong relationships, as he touched the hearts of all he worked with and was truly an inspiring leader. He was most recently recognized for his efforts in 2011 when he was inducted into the Environthon Hall of Fame and in 2013 when he received the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, one of the Province’s highest honors. Jim loved Montana and almost every year spent time here hunting and fishing with his brother Harry Potton and family.
Our “Papa” will be missed by his wife Myrna, his children, Michael, Traci, Randy, Nanci and partner Rochel, his grandchildren Garrett, Dylan, Emma, Samantha and Elija along with numerous relatives, friends and colleagues.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life will take place at the Riverside Cemetery in Stevensville on Thursday, September 25, 2014 at 2 p.m. with American Legion Military Honors. Jim was a member of our local American Legion Post #94 and enjoyed participating in their activities when he could.
The family would like to thank the staff at Health Sciences Center GH3 as well as Jim’s many health care providers over the years. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, donations can be made in the name of the Potton-Booth family of Winnipeg which will go to the Environthon Program of the Manitoba Forestry Association. “Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day.” Thank you Papa, you have left an amazing legacy. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.