James (Jim) Stanley Broadbent

It is with the utmost sadness that we announce the sudden passing of James (Jim) Stanley Broadbent. Jim passed away on September 1, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife and children.

Jim was a loving husband who adored his wife Laura, a gentle father who treasured his three children beyond measure, and a proud grandfather who cherished every moment with his five grandchildren. He was proud of his family and loved them all deeply, and it was this love that instilled an intense sense of loyalty, grounding, and affection between them all. He never missed the chance to say, “I love you”, and those words, along with his laughter and warmth, built a cocoon of love around the entire family. He was a family man and prized his family above all else. Team Broadbent will never be the same without our darling English Jim.

Jim was a man of true character. He lived with sincerity and always had time for others. He asked thoughtful questions, gave the best advice, and never lost sight of the things in life that truly mattered. He had an inquisitive mind, keen intellect, and impeccable memory. He valued life-long learning and was constantly reading about new things, asking others to share their knowledge with him, and imparting wisdom to those around him. His wisdom, grace, and humor were gifts that he passed on to those blessed to have spent time with him.

Jim was incredibly calm, patient, playful, and lighthearted. He loved a good prank, a well-timed joke, or a witty remark, and he would often go to great lengths to make the people around him laugh. He was a true comedian who loved to laugh, and his own laugh was often the most joyous sound in the room. His humor, charm, and clever wit brightened every space he entered, and his stories – which he collected like treasures – delighted all who listened.

Jim was immensely proud of his English heritage and found great joy in sharing his love of England with others. Jim was born in Oldham, England, and was the first-born son to Stanley and Irene Broadbent. He was also a proud older brother to Roy. As a young man, he embodied the “mod” spirit and was always impeccably dressed, polished, and stylish. He enjoyed riding motorbikes to Motown concerts with friends and relished the camaraderie of the scooter gang. Jim loved the Queen, the rolling English countryside, Manchester United, wine gums, and everything else that reminded him of home. He could often be found telling stories about English history, WWII, Broad Meadow Farm, or reminiscing about his parents, brother, Aunty Winnie, Uncle John, and family alike. He carried his love of England everywhere he went and took great pride in sharing his heritage with others. His fondest memories included adventures with his brother Roy, and lifelong friends from Oldham and Jersey.

Jim’s life was full of chapters – from Oldham to Jersey to Canada – and in each one he built love, friendship, and memories. While living in Jersey Jim met Laura, the love of his life. After a whirlwind romance they married on New Year’s Eve 1983 before starting their family. Together, they welcomed their first daughter Emily, in 1984. After moving to Calgary in 1985, the family welcomed their second daughter Gillian, and their son Jonathan. Jim’s greatest joy was his family, and he treasured the beautiful life he built with his wife and children above all else. The Broadbent family’s home was always filled with love and laughter.

Jim was also an incredibly skilled and talented carpenter. He was apprenticed at the renowned Rose and Sons Builders in Oldham and was extremely gifted in architectural drawing and custom woodwork. Jim built a successful business in Jersey, and then again after moving to Calgary. Throughout his career he worked on many high-profile projects, and he leaves behind not only beautiful pieces of craftsmanship but also lasting friendships with clients who cherished his warmth as much as his skill. Throughout Jim’s career he trained and mentored many carpenters and he took pride in sharing his craft with others. Jim often mentioned that one of the greatest joys of his life was working alongside his son Jonathan and sharing his love of woodwork with him.

Life with Jim was always fun. He loved music, good company, dressing up, and a Guinness shared with friends. His favorite kind of party was one that had all these things. He was often the last man standing at family gatherings, New Year’s Eve parties, or costume events and could be found laughing, celebrating, and making everyone around him feel joy. Jim was a fountain of youth and carried a sense of child-like wonder throughout his life. He was fit, vibrant, and lived his life with true joy. His rosy cheeks, giddy smile, and impeccable style made him unforgettable. He was an irreplaceable gem – a true legend, held deeply in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife, Laura; children, Emily (Josh), Gillian (Dan), and Jonathan (Christine); and grandchildren, Jake, Davis, Adelyn, Isla and Lydia. He will also be deeply missed by his brother, Roy (Jan), nieces, Debbie (Martin, son Sam) and Sarah (Steve, children Holly and George), brother-in-law, Eric, and nephew, Hugh. He is predeceased by his parents (Stanley and Irene), his in-laws (James and Marjorie Duncan), and his sister-in-law (Dawn).

Jim leaves behind a family who loved him more than words can express. He was a true gentleman with the kindest heart, the best jokes, and a laugh that will echo in our memories forever. He was a pillar of strength and lived a beautiful and vibrant life. We will miss the twinkle in his eye, his wisdom, his patience, and the love he shared so freely.

We will always hold a space for you in our hearts. We love you to bits and will miss you forever. Until we see you again, our darling Jim.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at the Arthur Child Cancer Centre for their care and support during Jim’s final days.

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