Jim passed peacefully at his home in Collingwood, surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 30, 2023, in the 88th year of his beautiful and joyful life. Beloved husband of Ellen Gott (Downey) for 66 years, during which they built a family that he was so incredibly proud of. Loving dad to Jamie & Sandy Gott, Will Gott & Greg Weland, and Mark Gott & Corinna McFarlane. Treasured Grandpa / Papa of Crystal Gott & Patrick Morris, Justin and Carolyn Gott, James Gott & David Benoit, Tristan Eagles & Derrick Cummins, and Noah Hooper. Adoring Great Grandpa to Olivia Howe, Ian Howe, Everett Howe, Elijah Howe, Allison Gott, Graham Gott, Claire Gott, and Sloan Eagles. Dear brother of Edward, Beverly, Jill and predeceased by Margaret and William. Loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Jim lived each day fully and with a positive outlook. He worked very hard while always putting his family first, and being a fierce defender of the people he loved. He showed anyone he met acceptance and saw the best in everyone he knew. His family was lucky enough to receive things like nightly phone calls, coffee and homemade biscuit visits, and frequent family get-togethers where good food and hugs were a must! Much of his retirement was spent in his wood shop making us all beautiful, one-of-a-kind wooden furniture, that we treasure immeasurably and will pass on through the generations. He always said he got more out of giving gifts than receiving them.
It is hard to put into words the positive impact and lasting impression Jim had, and will continue to have on his family and community. The world has lost a great man, but he wanted to leave us all with two messages:
- “If you have trouble finding joy in your heart, try doing something nice for someone. It will fill you right up. And if you can’t help someone, do them no harm.”
- “We have to pay attention to our children. Respect them and they will grow up to respect each other. We need to show our children love, and they will be just fine.”
Finally, to our wonderful patriarch who taught us so much, we’ve “enjoyed you immensely”, and a life such as yours “would win at the fair”.
Following Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place Spring/Summer 2024.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com – or any good stories about Jim; he always loved a good story!
Durid Awaad
We were deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Losing a loved one is undeniably one of the most challenging experiences, and our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.
May the memories and shared experiences provide some comfort and solace in the days ahead. Please accept our sincere condolences, and know that you are in our thoughts.
Wishing you strength and peace as you navigate through this chapter of grief. We hold the utmost respect for you and your family, and we will be forever grateful for the impact you’ve had on our lives.
Mary Armstrong
There will never be another one like him. He was unique and will be remembered very fondly by many. He loved everyone, mentored many and went out of his way to help in anyway he could. His thought provoking words will ring in my ear for many years to come.
Tracey Lavelle
Please accept my sincere condolences and know that you are in my thoughts.
I never personally knew Jim but with all the wonderful stories and how the family spoke about him , not only do I feel like I knew him, he is one special human!
Mark Brown
It was a simple drive to Feversham to drop of some chickens for processing. Rather routine, certainly not something to be remembered years later. But with Jim in the passenger seat one ride can be forever.
In 30 minutes we were able to have joyous laughter and yet moments so sincere that made me feel like somehow Jim had known me, and seen the best of me, all of my life.
That sincerity and honest heart was a remarkable gift to any of us who knew Jim. I often saw him riding shotgun with Jamie – in truth, though we can’t see him, I am confident he rides there still.
Jeff Cannon
Jimmy Gott. He and his brother “Eddie” were two of my dad’s (Jim Cannon) favorite cousins! Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I remember him when I was a kid at the Fleetham reunions and at Christmas gatherings at Bob and Shirley’s house. Some of the stories I’ve heard of the Gott and Cannon kids running around Caledon East way back when still make me chuckle. Jim was one of the first people to call my mom when my dad passed. A true gentleman and good guy. My condolences to the entire Gott Family
Paul & John
Our deepest condolences and sympathy’s to the families.
Jo Priam
Mr. Gott was a one of a kind unforgettable gentle soul. Although I only met him a few times I feel like I knew him vicariously through his son Will. The love and respect Will expressed to both of his parents was always a testament to the type of parents he was lucky enough to grow up with. We can pick our friends but not our family but in the case of Will and his brothers, they sure hit the parental jackpot! RIP Mr. Gott. Xoxoxo. The Priam Family.
Nancy Boyce-Watson
So sorry to read this notice… my deepest condolences to all the “Gott Family”!
MARION SWITZER
Jim and Ellen’s warm loving famiiy reflects their warm and loving relationship, and their values. When I was a child my favourite place was the Gott farm where Jim and Jill were always ready to allow little cousins to tag along and play. To all of you, but especially to Ellen, I offer my condolences. The next little while will be sad but full of thanksgiving for all that has been. Love from all my family.
William Robbins
Jim was a very positive, caring, and honest person and I never met anyone who was prouder of his family and their
accomplishments than he was.
I feel very fortunate to have called him my friend for over 80 years and will miss our telephone chats and country drives around the Feversham area when I visited.
He will be sorely missed.
My condolences to Ellen and the Gott family.
Bill Robbins
Shari Avison
Hi Shari here.
I used to work @ Ice River Springs.
I remember your Dad, nice person.
Sorry to hear.
Shari Avison.
shariavison4@gmail.com