Jim Newby

Jim Newby, P. Eng.

December 5, 1925 – July 23, 2023

It is with deep sadness the family of Jim Newby announces his death on July 23, 2023 after a life well lived. He was pre-deceased by his loving wife, Joan on June 16, 2023 after 70 years of marriage. He is survived by his daughter Ann Bozoian (Haig), son Rod (Emi), and his grandchildren, Ari, Sarah (Thomas) and Emma (Jake), to whom he was a loving Nandad.

Jim was born on December 5, 1925 in Camrose, Alberta but moved to Wetaskiwin at a young age. In 1944, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy where he served until 1947. After leaving the navy, he entered the University of Alberta where he graduated in 1952 with Distinction with a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering. That year, he also married Joan and they moved to Edmonton to start their life together. He was a founding partner of what became Duthie, Newby, Weber and Associates Ltd and was awarded a Life Membership in the Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta. Jim was also active in his community. He was elected as a Director of the Edmonton Regional Board of Directors of the Alberta Motor Association in 1979 and rose to become Chairman of the Board of Governors from 1993-1995. He was made an Honorary Life Governor in 1995. Jim also served as President of the Men’s Canadian Club of Edmonton, Vice-President of the Winston Churchill Society of Edmonton, and was Past Master of Griesbach Masonic Lodge #191.

Jim loved his work but above all cherished his family and friendships. While he worked long hours, he also found time for two of his passions – skiing and sailing. He spent many happy hours skiing at Rabbit Hill and sailing at Pigeon Lake. His favorite times were spent at the cottage at Ma-Me-O Beach with family and friends and he was a very proud member of the Ma-Me-O Beach Sailing Club.

In 2013, he and Joan moved to Victoria where they resided at Carlton House.

Jim was a loyal friend, a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather and his infectious laugh, the twinkle in his eye, and his zest for life will be cherished and missed. Special thanks to niece Donna and her husband Don Chadsey who have always been so caring and helpful. Thanks also to the staff of Carlton House for their ongoing support, and the staff at Veteran’s Memorial Lodge for their kindness.

Rest well, with love.

The family plans a private ceremony for Jim and Joan. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation Learning Centre in Edmonton would be appreciated.