James “Rocky” Davidson
Posted By Egan Funeral Home On December 19, 2025 @ 1:56 pm In Bolton Area,Obituaries | 54 Comments
On April 8th, 1947, James Davidson made his grand appearance in this world. Born in Toronto, Jim spent most of his youth in the Clarkson area of Mississauga with a brief interlude in the Orillia area before returning to Clarkson. Jim shared his childhood with two younger sisters, Dorothy and Linda. He went on to further his education at Waterloo University. He paid his own way by working in the kitchens at the university and at the Gulf Oil Refinery in Clarkson.
Jim was always involved in sports, with a special interest in football and hockey. He played football in high school and while attending University, playing for St. Paul’s College. He made up for his average size with his determination and energy. In addition to playing hockey, Jim later went on to become a referee.
After graduation from University, Jim experimented in different jobs over several years before finding his true calling when he joined the Peel Regional Police in 1975. He also found a new name. While not everyone was acquainted with Jim Davidson, they all knew ‘Rocky’.
Jim’s determination was again a major part of his success as a police officer, investigator and supervisor. He took a great deal of pride in the skills he developed over the years and shared his knowledge with younger officers. He was particularly proud of his many years as a negotiator and training new negotiators. On one occasion, Rocky was able to bring about a safe resolution in a very challenging situation when the barricaded person was deaf and there were no sign-language interpreters available. “Rocky’ finally took a well-deserved retirement in 2010 after 35 years of service.
The only thing Jim valued more than his career was family. His high school girlfriend, Judy, became his wife and together they had a daughter, Heather, and a son, Andrew. He was so proud of them and their accomplishments. Jim later met up with the second love of his life and spent over 30 years with Donna. They were partners in every way and enjoyed sharing their dedication to policing together. Following retirement, they had the opportunity to enjoy travelling together, visiting 15 different countries.
Of course, his love of family extended to his grandchildren. Heather and her husband, Dean, raised an amazing young woman, Jessica, who is married to Jeremy. Andrew and his wife, Marina, have three wonderful and talented children, Henry, Charles, and Elizabeth. Jim was proud of all of them and delighted in teaching them important life skills like how to throw a football, make a paper airplane and the importance of winter tires.
Jim spent many pleasurable hours, especially after retirement, with his high school friend, Ken Mason. It was Ken who tweaked Jim’s interest in vintage automobiles, resulting in Jim’s ownership of a vintage Jaguar.
Jim was always the person who wanted to take care of others, fix things and keep people safe, especially family and friends. He continued with that right up until he quietly left us on December 18th, 2025.
Hostage Negotiators have a motto in Latin: “Pax per colloquium” which translates to “Peace through dialogue”. It emphasizes that negotiation and talking are the key to achieving peaceful outcomes. Jim’s talking is done and he’s now at peace. Jim will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.
The family will receive their friends at the Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy. 50) Bolton (905-857-2213) for a memorial reception on Monday, January 5th from 1 – 4 o’clock.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel/York (peelyork.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/).
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Condolences for the family of “James “Rocky” Davidson”
Sincerest condolences to Donna and to all of Jim’s family and close friends. Jim was deeply respected within the policing community, a reputation he earned through his unwavering dedication to the profession, his colleagues, and the citizens he served. His commitment and integrity will be remembered with gratitude and admiration.
Jim was a truly kind soul whom, while I had limited contact with him during my working life, I enjoyed and appreciated any opportunity to connect. Peace, Rocky
I’ve known Rocky since the late 70’s and early 80’s while working both in ‘blue’ and at 21CIB, Although he was never my boss, Rocky was always there when you needed some old fashioned Detective advice . As previously mentioned, he always had a smile on his face and time to chat when I would see him at Headquarters, different Divisions and other Police functions. I can safely say he was one of the good ones and highly respected by his peers. . My sincerest condolences Donna and may he rest in peace. May God Bless….
Donna and Family.
Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. May the memories you have serve you well over the coming days. RIP Rocky and God Speed.
Lloyd Lancaster, PRP, D/Sgt, #226, (RET).
Wasaga Beach.
So sorry on hearing the passing Jim(Rocky). We were worked together in the old 21 Division CIB and enjoyed many laughs there. The one thing that was a constant that on a Friday night he brought a rose home to Donna.. Jim will be missed..Rest in peace Rocky.
What a beautiful tribute to a man who was obviously loved by many, and highly respected .
Donna, I am so sorry, sending hugs to you and the family as well. Rockys’ presence will always be felt, he will always be near.
I remember my brother taking my hand and leading me out the door of our school in Clarkson during Hurricane Hazel. Seconds later the door blew off the school. He got me home safely. Always family first. I will never forget you! Linda
D/S Davidson (Rocky) was my D/Sgt. at 21 Division. He was a great investigator and a mentor to many of us including me. He took me out on patrol while in CIB which he referred to as “milk runs” and seek out the criminal elements in Brampton. He was a great boss, investigator and friend. Rest in peace Rock. you were a legend at 21 Div.
My sympathies Donna.
Jim was a gentleman and it was always truly heartening to see him so consistently and proudly representing Peel Regional Police as a dedicated retiree in his unform at various occasions, often time that being funerals. He represented us ALL so well with his selfless, friendly and dedicated attendance. I know the families of our past members were so appreciative of his support He will be missed.by so many
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Jimmy, a dear friend of more than 50years and a trusted work colleague , who passed away December 18th. Words can scarcely capture the sense of loss felt by those who knew Jim, but it is important to honour a life that was rich in meaning, loyalty, and quiet strength.
My friendship with Jimmy began at our recruit class March 10th 1975, and endured through all of life’s chapters-youth,career,family, and the passage of time itself. very few people are fortunate enough to share such a long and unwavering bond. Through good times and difficult ones, Jim remained a steady presence, offering honesty, humour, and steadfast support. The memories we shared – both ordinary and extraordinary-are treasures that will live on.
Rest in Peace my friend. Your friend Tony
Donna, my Deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. My memories of Jim take me back of when we played hockey together on the PRP hockey team. He was true and honest team mate. May God bless you and grant you strength.
Michael Ambrosio
Dear Donna, I’m so so sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. I always enjoyed working with him.
He had a dry sense of humor, but he could always make me laff. It was a pleasure knowing him.
Hugs to you Donna.
Donna, my deepest condolences to you and the rest of your family on Jim’s passing. I have many great memories of working with you both at 21 Division and later meeting with you both at the PRP Retirees Association meetings.
I always remember Rocky had his own probation system at 21 Division without the need for the court. He was a unique and talented member of Peel Regional Police.
Dear Donna and family
I send my condolences to everyone during this difficult time. I hope you find comfort in all your memories. Contact me if you want to talk. Take care of yourself
Barb Riddell
CPIC – ret’d
Donna, I am so sorry for your loss. Rocky was my S/Sgt in the early 1990’s and we had some very robust discussions usually centering around hockey. He was an avid conversationalist with a dry sense of humour which usually made one smirk. I miss those conversations. RIP Rocky.
My sincere condolences go out to Donna and the whole family. Rocky was my D/Sgt in 21 CIB while I was on my TIPS. He was always a gentleman and a wealth of knowledge. Rest in peace.
Such a shock! My sincere condolences to you Donna and to Jim’s family.
l’ll always remember Jim turning a miserable,
wet traffic point at Bramton GO into a fun afternoon when he burst into “Singing in The Rain” with his best Gene Kelly dance and song interpretation . What a guy!
Dear Donna and All the Family,
I was so sorry to learn of Jim /Rocky’s passing. I have so many fond memories of working with Rocky and enjoyed debates with him as to why he kept giving my son penalties when refereeing his hockey games! I often teased him about picking on the big guy. In most recent years I enjoyed doing Honour Guard Duties with Rocky and never did it cross my mind that I would be honoured to be Rocky’s Honour Guard. Rest In Peace Rocky. You were one of the good ones and will be dearly missed. Donna and all the family we will always be here for you.
Donna, mr deepest condolences at his time abdbtonKims family !!
My sincerest condolences and sympathies to Donna and all of Jim’s family and friends. Rocky was one of a kind and will truly be missed by all that knew him. Jim was dedicated to his family as well as his work family. I never worked with him but knew him for many years and had the pleasure of working on the Retirees board. RIP Rocky.
Donna
You and Rocky were such a team! He will be missed by many! Thinking of you!
Our condolences and sympathies
Another reminder that the years may pass but time is truly short.
Our thoughts are with you
Karyn and Gary Carty
I worked with Rocky for 3 years in 12 cib. He had a profound impact on me as a person as well as a police officer.
Rip.
Donna, I was very sorry to hear about Rocky’s passing. I will remember him as being a really nice man with a good sense of humour. When I was a younger officer he was always very supportive and encouraging.
Donna I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. My deepest condolences to you and Jim’s family and friends. I hope that the many memories you shared together will bring you comfort in the days ahead!
Donna and family,
Dan and I are saddened to learn of Jim’s passing and send our sincere condolences to all of you.
I fondly remember Rocky from both my start at 21 and my time in 12 YB where he was my D/S… Sunday day shift shotgun cleaning is one I’ll never forget! He treated me well and I’ll never forget that.
I’m sorry we won’t be around for January 5th … you and Rocky will be in our thoughts!
My sincere condolences to you Donna and to Jim’s family. “Rocky” was taken too soon, there will be better days ahead.
Condolences to you and your family Donna. Rocky was a class act if ever there was one. Had many a fun time at 21 with him. It was a pleasure meeting with you and Rocky at the Retirees BBQ ‘s. He will be missed.
Donna, my deepest condolences to you and the family. Working at 21 Div. with both of you, I have many fond memories. I will always remember Jim’s wry smile. It was like, you knew he knew, and he knew, you knew, he knew. He was always there to lend a hand or pass along advice.
Shocked and saddened at Jim’s passing. It wasn’t so long ago we sat together at the BBQ in Streetsville and talked over old times. Jim and I never worked together but our paths crossed frequently, mostly at Friday morning hockey when I was trying to skate around him. Jim and Donna looked so professional as the honour guard at Dave Berry’s celebration of life and I was proud to have known them both.
Donna please accept my deepest condolences.
Neil “Moby” Masson
Donna,
My sincere sympathy for your loss. While I never worked with Jim, I always found him to be truly professional and a very good person. May he rest in peace and may you find comfort in fond memories.
Steve Jones
Dear Donna and family,
Shona and I were saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. While Jim and I never worked together our paths did cross when he was doing hostage negotiations when I was in emergency planning. I was fortunate to have gotten to know him after retirement through his time on the retirees association. I will always cherish the times we spent chatting together at the retirees barbecues.
Continuing to hold you up in our prayers.
Love Bill & Shona
Our heartfelt condolences to Donna and all of Jim’s family. He was loved by all that knew him and he will be deeply missed. May his memory bring comfort and solace in the days ahead.
Our prayera.and condolences go out to all of JIM’S family and friends. Rocky was a real gentleman and wonderful guy. An excellent and accompliahed officer who had compassion for all. He will always be fondly remembered. RIP Rocky.
I was very saddened to hear of this news. I wasn’t aware that Jim had been ill. My heartfelt thoughts are with Donna and Jim’s family. Rest in peace Staff
Donna, my sincere condolences. Rocky was always such a nice man and gentleman when he came into the Association. He would beam speaking about his grandchildren.
I pray he rests in peace, and the love you shared with help you through this difficult time.
Rose -PRPA
Sincere condolences to family
Dear Donna,
Please accept our condolences to you and the family, on your loss of Jim,(Rocky). Under the gruff exterior was a kind and compassionate man. He was the glue in our monthly breakfast gathering, with the lads, as he called us. I will always remember how he would bring us Christmas cracker for the December gathering and we would wear the silly paper hats while searching for the little toys inside. I would try to incite him with discussions on politics, but he would never bite on the challenge, He was the consummate diplomat. He will be missed greatly. Rest in Peace my friend, until we meet again.
John & Patti Christian
Dear Donna and Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Rocky’s passing. Though Blair never had the chance to work directly with him, their paths often crossed at 21 Division. We always remember Rocky as a true gentleman with a wonderful and unique sense of humour. After retirement, we truly appreciated the times we spent with him and Donna at Peel Police Retirees Association activities, where his warmth and kindness shone through.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Rocky will be missed, but his memory will remain in all of us who had the privilege to know him.
Wishing you comfort and peace,
Blair and Janet Clevely
I was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He and Donna were great comfort to me when John passed. I will always remember. My prayers are with you Donna! Take care, Peggy Kerk
Donna Sincere condolences to your family.
Jim and I met on recruit class in Mar ’75. We worked a few years on E Pltn 21 Div before he moved on in his career.
Am shocked by his passing.
You were good team!
Take care and stay safe…………..John
Dear Donna and Family,
Our sincere condolences go out to you and the family at this difficult time.
Our fond memories of Jim and our many pleasant visits during the year and our memorable Christmas Eve traditions with you both will never be forgotten.
Treasure your memories, and may your strength guide you in the days ahead.
Love, Jen, Richard and Family
Dear Donna, My condolence to you and yours!
Steven Hoban
Dear Donna,
I’m so saddened to hear about Jim’s passing, my thoughts are with you and your family.
I have such fond memories of “Rocky”; as my boss in the Hostage Negotiator’s team, I truly enjoyed going to calls with him and attending his training days at your house, where you both received us with such open arms.
Sending you strength and love.
Donna: So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I remember working with you and Jim at the old 21 Division. Jim gave me some guidance as a young officer regarding one of my dog’s breakfast cases. His advice was good and eventually lead to a published case law regarding “Personation.” Pretty cool stuff.
Hey Jim, “Gladstone Hall.” We did good. Thanks for everything.
Donna my heartfelt sympathy.
Donna my condolences to you and the family. I always enjoyed our chats at the barn as well as our volunteer time.
Rocky was my first D/S in 21 CIB. He was a great boss who kept a close eye on things but still gave us the independence to do what we were there to do. I had a lot of respect for him and was saddened to hear of his passing. He also worked hard with the PRPRA. May he rest in peace. and my condolences to Donna, his family, friends, and loved ones.
My deepest condolences to you Donna on the loss of such a kind and wonderful man. Rocky was my good luck charm and always brightened the room when he was in it. He will be greatly remembered.
Our family send our deepest sympathy to and your family for Jim’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May your many wonderful memories ease your loss. Love Lynne and Lance.
With our deepest sympathy in the loss of Jim, your cherished life partner. We are thinking of you with caring thoughts. Susan & Ed
Donna, our condolences to you and your family after Jim’s untimely passing. I was fortunate to get to know him when we both served on the Retirees Association with you. It was always a pleasure to meet you and Jim at the Retirees events. We wish you comfort and strength in your memories.
George and Renate
Our deepest condolences to you Donna. We know you hold many fond and cherished memories close to your heart.
Norm and Kathy
Condolences to you Donna. Jim always treated me with kindness that I will never forget & his humor May he rest in peace
Love Bryanna
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Donna I’m so sorry for your loss. Jim was such a nice man and it was rare that I didn’t see him without a smile on his face. May your happy memories bring you peace at such a difficult time.