In Memory of

James

"Jim"

Tristram

Obituary for James "Jim" Tristram

JAMES (JIM) TRISTRAM, September 18, 1948 – September 13, 2022

Our family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jim Tristram at the age of 73. He succumbed to complications from major surgery at Toronto General Hospital.

Jim was raised on the outskirts of Brockville, Ontario, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse and had fond memories of pond hockey, summers at Bass Lake, and outdoor adventures with friends and family.

At the age of 21, Jim joined the Ontario Provincial Police, which took him to the northern shore of Lake Superior and the small town of Marathon. He and Pat married in 1970 and started to build their lives together. In between shifts at the detachment, Jim was an active member of the community—as a member of the local curling club and Lions Club. Jim also enjoyed snowmobiling and, of course, lots of parties.

Baby made three, then again four, and in 1981, the Tristrams continued their adventures in Kitchener-Waterloo. By day, Jim continued his public service with the Ministries of Labour and Transportation. By night, Jim completed his education at Wilfrid Laurier University. He graduated in the late ‘80s with a diploma in Business and Economics. Soon after, he joined the ranks of the local real estate professionals.

Jim’s real estate career was expansive and extended beyond the day-to-day of being a realtor. In the early ’90s, Sutton Group Performance Realty opened, which Jim co-owned and co-brokered for several years. With his wife, Pat, Jim opened Tristram Realty Associates Inc. in 2001, which continues today. Jim also dedicated himself to the profession as an instructor at OREA Real Estate College for numerous years and, more recently, as a valued consultant and subject matter expert in the development and launch of Humber College’s Real Estate Education program. His in-depth knowledge and extensive experience earned him a reputation as a trusted mentor and colleague whose contributions to the profession will endure for years to come.

Outside of real estate, Jim was devoted to self-improvement and helping others do the same. While humble, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, empathy, and unwavering support. The number of lives he touched is significant and our family finds comfort in knowing the lasting impact he had.

Traveling and adventuring were a huge part of what made Jim “Jim”. He sought to explore the world as much as he could and, along the way, he left a piece of his heart in many places—Myrtle Beach, Canada’s East and West Coasts, Europe, Ontario Waterways, Disney World, Portugal, Hawaii, and Horseshoe Valley. His preferred way to travel was by boat, big and small, and by motorcycle. Jim was thrilled when his sister began a career at a luxury hotel chain that allowed him to reap a few benefits, including an unforgettable drive to Buckingham Palace in a Bentley. His most recent adventure was spending 10 days at a Gravenhurst cottage with family and friends. He spent his days sitting on the dock, fishing with his grandchildren, exploring the art of “Aqua-cycling”, catching up with friends, and exploring the quaint towns of Gravenhurst and Bracebridge. Other highlights of this memorable trip include a dance party, ice cream, and plenty of laughs.

Jim had many interests and hobbies, but the passion that was closest to his heart were his grandchildren. He loved cheering them on from the sidelines or stands, teaching them how to fish, golf, and drive. Nothing made Jim prouder than his four grandkids and spoiling them was something that came easy to him. Grampa rarely said “no” and the grandkids were receptive.

Jim is survived by his wife, Pat, of 52 years, his daughters Jennifer (Jason) and Stephanie (George). He will be sadly missed by his grandchildren, Claire, Connor, Colin, and Meghan, his sister, Mary Ellen, and many cherished family and friends.

The family is grateful to the doctors, nurses, and medical staff at Toronto General Hospital who did so much under difficult circumstances.

Jim's family will receive relatives and friends from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, September 23, 2022, and from 1-3:15 p.m. on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick St. Kitchener (519) 749-8467. Funeral Service in the chapel on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Reception to follow.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to Food 4 Kids Waterloo Region or The Lung Health Foundation would be appreciated (cards available at the funeral home).

Visit www.henrywalser.com to view Jim's memorial.