James (Jim) Uhl

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Richard John Uhl, age 81, of Sherwood Park, Alberta, originally from Strasbourg, Saskatchewan.

Jim passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 4, 1944, to Frank and Anne Uhl, Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.

Jim trained as a stationary engineer—now known as a power engineer—and was also a skilled mechanic with a lifelong love for classic cars, especially Chryslers and Mopar vehicles. He was happiest under the hood of an old engine or behind the wheel of a well-loved ride. He also had a passion for auctions, always on the hunt for a new treasure, whether practical or purely sentimental. Jim also found peace and joy in gardening, especially tending to his beloved roses, which he nurtured with care and pride. He was an avid reader, always eager to explore new ideas, histories, and stories through books.

A storyteller at heart, Jim’s tales—rich with humour and heart (some tales taller than others)—brought people together. And if you were lucky, you might hear one over a good glass of scotch, a drink he thoroughly enjoyed.

Throughout his life, Jim called many places home, including Yellowknife, Vancouver, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. He built community wherever he went, and he leaves behind a trail of friendships and memories across the country.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Maryann, and their children: Joyann Francis, Sonya (Nicholas) Wurster and Steven (Meredith) Uhl. He was a cherished grandfather to Andie (Michael) Money, Brandi (Aaron) Francis, Courtney (Brandon) Little, Samantha Francis, Lukas Uhl, Raistlan Uhl, Evan Wurster, and Caitlin Wurster, and a proud great-grandfather to Scarlett, Braxton, and Blaire Money. He was affectionately known as Pa, Dad, Grandpa Uhl, or Grandpa Jim to many who were connected not by blood, but by love—including his children’s childhood friends, who were welcomed into the family and remained a treasured part of his life.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his bonus mom, Evelyn Mohr, and siblings: Larry (Sharon) Uhl, Don (Trudy) Uhl, Jo-Anne (Roy) Galloway, Jackie (Wayne) Nagy, and Diane (Gerry) Oehler, along with his bonus sisters: Sharon (Wally) Martinenko and Bev Mohr, and brother-in-law, Don (Charlotte) Payak. He also leaves behind a large extended family of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom brought him joy and shared in a lifetime of memories.

He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Anne Uhl, siblings Allan Uhl and Jeanne Triffo, and his brother-in-law Fred Triffo. He was also predeceased by Maryann’s parents, Mike and Joyce Payak.

An interment will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Strasbourg Cemetery at 4:30 pm, followed by a reception in Bulyea, Saskatchewan. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Ardrossan, Alberta, where family and friends will gather to share memories and raise a glass in his honour.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at www.cpff.ca.

Jim’s legacy of craftsmanship, curiosity, and kindness lives on in every engine he fixed, every story he told, and every treasure he found. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.