BAINTON-HOWE, James Robert
December 31, 1965 - December 15, 2023
James Robert Bainton-Howe, of Airdrie, AB, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023, at the age of 57 years.
James was born in Jasper, AB, on December 31, 1965.
He spent his early childhood in the area of Ferintosh, AB, before moving to Cremona, AB where he finished out his high school years. During adulthood, James spent time in Cremona, Cochrane, and Calgary before living out his final years in Airdrie.
In his early twenties, James had a short but memorable stint working for SDS Drilling, where his fondest memories were travelling to Africa with his stepdad Fred. This was certainly his furthest trip from home at any point in his life, and he treasured that experience very much.
James had six kids, who he enjoyed spending time with when he had the chance, and was very proud of all of them.
Anyone who has been close to him in recent years would know that he absolutely lived to spend time with his grandson, Little James. Whether the two of them were camping, trying new sports or hanging out at home, James found his groove in terms of patience and passion while hanging out with his grandson. He even built Little James a number of really cool toys and activities, including a Wheel of Fortune coffee table. Big James and Little James certainly made a great pair.
Finally, James took great pride in working at Spray Lake Sawmills in Cochrane for over 35 years, where he got his start contributing to production before successfully pursuing his journeyman millwright ticket. James felt a great sense of belonging to be part of the SLS legacy and was optimistic for the future of the mill, where he was ready to continue marching forward alongside his colleagues, who he loved and respected greatly.
James is survived by his 4 daughters, Sara Ouellette of Cambridge Ontario, Tegan Thompson of Edmonton, AB, Mikayla Butts of Airdrie, AB, Loraine Butts of Airdrie AB; 2 sons and 1 daughter-in-law, Fred (Catherine) Thompson of Edmonton, AB, Levi Thompson of Breton, AB; 1 grandchild, James Butts of Airdrie, AB.
James is also survived by his father, Mike Bainton who resides in Florida, and his stepfather, Fred Howe of Ferintosh, AB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
James was predeceased by his mother, Christine Howe, brother Michael Bainton, and sister Corinne Howe.
A Memorial Service will take place in Summer 2024.
In living memory of James Bainton-Howe, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes
