THOROGOOD, Jimmy Leonard
September 6, 1945 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
March 20, 2022 – Calgary, Alberta
Jimmy “Jim” Thorogood passed away on Sunday, March 20, 2022. He touched the lives of so many in his life and will be missed by all.
Jim was a loving husband to Sharon Thorogood (nee Dunphy) for 54 years, father to Ryan (Kristen) Thorogood, Rana Rothwell, Tara (Mike) Kurkowsky, and Dane (Anise) Thorogood; he was grandpa and papa to Cassidy, Tynan, Kyra, Keelyn, Katelynn, Saryn, Knox, Cruz, and Jones. Jim was predeceased by his infant son Kent, his sister Marilyn, and his parents, Clifford and Thora Thorogood.
Jim was known for being a businessman and loved going to the office but those close to him knew his life revolved around his family. He loved spending time with his brothers and sisters, and as the big brother, he always loved being involved. It wasn’t uncommon to hear a roar of laughter erupt at a family gathering that was usually started by Jim’s infectious laugh. His love for family only grew stronger over the years as the Thorogood family grew larger with grandchildren. Jim made sure he was involved in all his grandkids’ activities and always tried to be in attendance at their ringette games, skating competitions, horse shows, performances, and races.
When it came to business and family, Jim had a great teacher in his father Cliff. He worked for Cliff at Bow Valley Lumber which eventually grew into Totem Building Supplies. A company that started with a father and his son grew exponentially over the years without ever losing the family culture. Since inception in 1970, Jim and his brothers grew Totem Building Supplies from one store in Forest Lawn to a provincial-wide chain, totaling sixteen stores.
After the sale Totem Building Supplies, he and his boys decided to venture into one of his favorite pastimes: golf. They purchased the Sundre Golf Club which was the start of yet another family business. Following the Sundre Golf Club, they built the Mountain View Inn and Suites, and later purchased the Greywolf Golf Course. He was able to enjoy the golf courses in the summer while spending the winter months in Maui with Sharon, always adding to his list of hole-in-ones at the King Kamehameha Golf Course.
Jim was one-of-a-kind and will be missed dearly, but he will be remembered fondly for his love and dedication to his family and friends, his remarkable outlook on life, and his unforgettable laugh. His friends and family will find comfort reminiscing of the stories and laughs that were shared ever so often, usually while sitting down for a cup of coffee.
A Celebration of Life was held for Jimmy at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB), on, Tuesday, March 29, 2022. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may also be shared and viewed there.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please remember Jim’s life and generosity by giving to a charity of your choice.
In living memory of Jim Thorogood, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.
