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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MacKEEN, James Henry George (Jim) - was born on September 10, 1934, in York Township (Toronto), Ontario. He was the third child and only son of Harold DeForest MacKeen and Margaret McGhie (nee Watson). He spent the first 10 years of his life there, before his family moved to Calgary. Jim graduated from Central High School in 1951 and immediately went to military college at Royal Roads (Victoria). He continued his education at RMC (Kingston) and later at the U of A (Edmonton). From his time as a cadet, Jim maintained active status with the Royal Canadian Navy (Reserve) until "released" in the mid 1990's as a Lieut-Commander RCN(R). After finishing university, he worked as a traveling salesman, life and general insurance agent, and realtor before qualifying to teach. He married in 1957 and welcomed a son that year and a daughter the next year. Jim was living in Calgary by 1960 and married again in 1961. He had welcomed another three children by 1971. Jim taught high school math and French and, starting in his 50's, acted in several Calgary-based productions. His roles included: 'torch runner' for the 1988 Olympics "Share the Flame" campaign, a sympathetic member of the 'International Alliance of Winter Sports' in "Cool Runnings" (1993), and Richard Crenna's double in "Heart Full of Rain" (1997). Despite his gig work, teaching high school was a lasting role that served Jim best for 30 years. Jim met his wife Virginiadean "Ginny" in the late 1970's and from then on, there was no one else but her. Together they travelled, made and kept good friends, and above all, treasured their families. He was heartbroken when he lost her two summers ago. Jim was predeceased by son Douglas Arthur; daughter Carol Anne; former spouses Beverly Sherwood and Darlene Watson; sisters Shirley Doe, Helen Egleston, and Nancy MacKeen; cousins Tom Watson and Caroline Lester; and nephews George A. Egleston and Harry Doe. Jim is survived by daughter Karen and son-in-law Rod; daughter Heather and son-in-law Greg; and son Bruce and daughter-in-law Stephanie, and their children. Jim is also survived by Ginny's children Linda, Judy, Ross, and Mary. He was also special to many nephews, nieces, grandchildren, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and 'framily' throughout his blended family. Special thanks are owed to his doctor Margot for her excellent care during his lifetime. Jim chose to not have a service. His arrangements are being handled by Sands Arbor Memorial in Nanaimo, BC. Condolences can be left on their website. Memorial donations are welcome to the Royal Roads Hatley Park Gardens, Grounds and Heritage Fund. (The Toronto Star 29 Aug 2026)
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