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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Nantais on Monday, December 1, 2025 — a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother, brother-in-law and friend. After a lengthy and courageous journey with Alzheimer’s, he is now at peace.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Rose Marie and Charles; his sister, Grace Trombley (Louie); his brothers Russell (Elsie), Raymond (Ruth), Ronald (Terry), and Dennis (Carol); as well as his brothers-in-law Gerald Pageau, Richard Murphy, and Jack Craig.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 59 years Jean; his children, Paula (Clay) and Glen (Barb); his granddaughters, Makinnlee (Harold), Holly (Jake), and Emma; and his four great-grandsons, Easton, Emmett, Cooper, and Elliott. Jim is also survived by his siblings Gerry (Sharon), Mike (Linda), Patricia, and Carol. He will be lovingly remembered by his in-laws from the Craig family—Marilyn, Irene (Russ), Donelda (Blaine), Helen (Randy), and Ruth (Paul)—and by the many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
Born on January 26, 1941, Jim spent his childhood and teenage years “down river.” He loved a good toe-tapping song and was a regular at the Teen Town dances. It was at one of those dances, at Kenwick on the Lake, that he met his wife Jean… and the story of their life together began.
Jim was a proud member of IUOE Union 793 for 63 years. His work took him to Timmins, Ripley, and eventually back home to settle in Corunna, where he spent decades as an operator.
He was an “eat dessert first” kind of man—especially if it was blueberry pie or apple fritters. He particularly loved his mom’s homemade chili sauce and Jean’s potato salad. Jim had a gift for laughter, often singing colourful little ditties and telling his funny, often mischievous jokes. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and treasured any chance to make memories with his brothers, nephews and brother-in-law.
Jim loved spending time with his children. He and Glen shared many unforgettable fishing trips together, and Paula was always by his side with a new project for him — a role he took on with patience, skill and a smile.
Jim shared a very special bond with his oldest great-grandson, Easton, with whom he loved going four-wheeling , adventuring and telling stories to. Although Alzheimer’s kept him from truly getting to know his three younger great-grandsons — Emmett, Cooper, and Elliott — he cherished and loved them all dearly.
His presence, humour, and warmth will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Buckton and the staff at Meadowview Villa for their exceptional care and compassion over the past four years.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home – London Line Chapel, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. with visitation held two hours prior from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society or the charity of your choice (cheques only at the funeral home, please).
