James Andrew Stainton

It is with great sadness that the family of James Stainton share that his death occurred on Thursday, May 2, 2024, because of medical complications affecting his heart. 

James was a man with many diverse talents. As a child, he demonstrated the unique musical gift of perfect pitch. He amazed his family and friends by memorizing albums of music performed by artists such as Kenny Rogers, perfectly mimicking words, voice and rhythm.

He went to university but found he enjoyed furniture making and challenged the NAIT course for experienced woodworkers, where he received his diploma. He determined he liked the idea of massage therapy, and he entered the CDI program, received his diploma, began to practice and took many courses to broaden his professional capabilities. He practiced in both Edmonton and Calgary.

James had many successes in life and touched many people. He was proud of being awarded the Alberta Centennial Medal in the year 2005. He was congratulated by Queen Elizabeth, who stopped her procession to talk to him and admire his guide dog.  The ACM is one of the highest honours the Province of Alberta bestowed on a citizen.

James was blind since birth but was educated and encouraged by his family, particularly his mother, to live an independent life and not be limited by his disability. He travelled extensively with family and friends. He travelled by himself with the help of his wonderful guide dogs who were part of his family.

He is survived by his mother, Linda Stainton and father, John Stainton (Barb Pontin); brother, Archie (Trudy Labrecque) Stainton; sister, Danielle Ghai (Avnish Ghai); nieces, Bria, Eva, Asha Ghai, nephew, Matthew Stainton, and his guide dog Mollie.

James benefitted from the work and love of five dogs from Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind. His family would request that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the school at https://www.guidedogs.ca/ or mailing address 4120 Rideau Valley, Manotick, ON, K4M 1A3 Phone 613-692-7777.

A Celebration of James’ Life will be held at the Lodge at Snow Valley in Whitemud Park, (13204 Rainbow Valley Rd. NW, Edmonton) on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.