Obituary of Jim Whyte

It is with heartfelt sadness that the family of James “Jim” Robert Whyte announces his passing on October 6, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Gravelbourg, SK, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 74 years old.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife of 54 years, Barbara Whyte (née Morrison); his children Eunice (Darryl) Neubeker and Jeffrey (Pamela) Whyte; grandchildren Kalum (Skylynn), Courtney (Jamie), Ashley (Erik), Owen (Sydney), Aurelia, Auley, Isla, and Irie; and great-grandchildren Tessa, Mavrik, and Arlo. He is also survived by his sisters Sheila Mendrikis, Debbie (Patrick) Field and sister-in-law Isabel Whyte; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Kathleen Whyte, his brother Lorne Whyte and his brother-in-law Al Mendrikis.

Jim was born on July 15, 1951, in Langenburg, Saskatchewan, the youngest of four children. He attended school in Shellmouth MB, and Inglis MB, then completed his grade 12 in Russell, MB. Right after graduation, his father took him to the TD Bank to seek employment and just a week later, Jim began his career with the bank.

On June 5, 1971, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Morrison, and together they began their journey through several communities with the TD Bank, including Langenburg, Bredenbury, and Kipling, before settling in Gravelbourg in 1973 where he felt most at home. They were blessed with two children, Eunice in 1974 and Jeffery in 1982.

In 1976, Jim left the bank and purchased the tire business and opened Jim’s Tire Ltd. west of Gravelbourg on Highway 43, which he proudly operated for 28 years. Dedicated to his community, Jim was an active member in the Lions Club and the Gravelbourg Fire Department where he served as Fire Chief for many years. He also enjoyed curling, fastball, and community events. After selling the Tire business, he also served as Pest Control Officer for the RM of Gravelbourg and worked as the maintenance man at Shamrock Park.

Never one to sit still, Jim later opened Whyte’s Feed Store in 2008, in the same location as Jim’s Tire, which continues to be a fixture in the community. Even after officially retiring in 2024 and passing the reins to Eunice and Darryl, Jim remained close by, always ready with advice or a helping hand with the books. If you didn’t find him at the shop, he was likely in one of his many gardens. He really enjoyed and took pride in his yard and gardens, providing the family with potatoes for a year!

Jim loved being part of his grandchildren’s lives, whether it was ball, hockey, or anything in between. When he couldn’t attend in person, he enjoyed being part of the action by live streaming. His greatest joy was his family. His quiet strength and great sense of humour touched everyone who knew him. Jim faced his battle with prostate cancer with courage and grace. His memory will forever be cherished by those who loved him. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.

A Celebration of Jim's Life will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Parish Hall in Gravelbourg, SK.