James "Bert" Albert Earnshaw

James ("Bert") Albert Earnshaw died suddenly and unexpectedly on April 4, 2023, in his long-term care home in Qualicum Beach, BC. Born February 23, 1936, in Blackburn, England, he spent most of his childhood in nearby Penwortham. Bert wed Mary Jackson in Preston, England in 1958; they had two sons, and then immigrated to Montreal, QC, where Bert began his career with Birks as a jeweller, managing stores in Montreal, Ottawa, Halifax, and Calgary, working his way up to Regional Manager. Bert and Mary moved to Parksville, BC, to enjoy their retirement years. They were members of the Parksville Lawn Bowling Club and loved to travel. Bert enjoyed weekly social time with his Parksville friends and their "Men's Breakfast Club" up until the fall of 2021 when mobility issues prevented that. 

Bert had many happy memories and was grateful for all he was able to experience in life. Despite his declining health and mobility, Bert maintained his sharp mind and attitude of gratitude to the end. Bert will be remembered as a respectful and easy-going man who was loyal to loved ones and friends. He was grateful for the quality care he received from the staff at The Gardens in the final stages of his life.

Predeceased by his parents, Albert and Janet Earnshaw (née Knowles); siblings Edna, Elsie and Richard ("Dick"); loving wife Mary Earnshaw (nee Jackson); and sadly, sons Andrew and Stewart; Bert is survived by grandchildren Jessica and Andrew of Nova Scotia, and Zoe and Hadyn of Parksville; his nieces and nephews Gail, Julia, Lesley, John, Megan, and Antonia in England; and his daughter-in-law Ann of Nanaimo. He will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him. Family and close friends will be invited to gather in Parksville, likely during the summer of 2023, to celebrate Bert's life. In honour of Bert, please consider donating to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.