Comments on: James Butterfield

By: Alastair Maxwell

Alastair Maxwell — Sun, 29 May 2011 21:36:06 +0000

It has been 2 years since Captain Butterfields passing, but to me it is today that it happened, today that I find out… my condolences. I served under him as a lowly catering attendant on A watch back in the early 80s….I look at his photo and instantly Im transported back to the day he dove from the bridge of the North, diving into the harbor in Port Hardy or Rupert and just blowing the crew all away with his moxie. I also remember how he shattered us all into stunned silence once during a lifeboat drill, just like the scene in the movie”the Dresser” when Albert Finney stops the train with his voice, Captain Butterfield was demonstrating how to use your voice to command silence and obedience in the event of an emergency. He definitely commanded obedience and respect, even without raising his voice.He is a memorable figure. I will not forget him.

Alastair Maxwell

By: Debra (Debi) Cochran

Debra (Debi) Cochran — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 03:46:42 +0000

I am so sad to only be finding out now of Captain Butterfields passing. He was a truly sweet man, and my father’s (Lee Cochran) captain with the BC ferries. He not only was his captain but his friend. I am comforted by the idea that he and my dad are up in heaven sharing old stories and laughs. Captain Butterfield in 1999 heard of my wedding and sent me a special letter and a card, he knew how I would be missing my father on that special day. I will never forget him for his kindness and when I was little letting me go on the bridge of the Queen of the North and blow the horn…..

Debi Cochran

By: Penny Williamson

Penny Williamson — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:17:32 +0000

Dear Sybil and family,
my sympathy to you all on the death of James. I haven’t seen you Sybil, since our trip home from Vancouver on the B.C. Ferry, when you so kindly offered me a ride home. This morning I spoke to Pat Harrison and he told me of James passing.

When someone you love,
Becomes a memory,
The memory
Becomes a treasure.

Sincerely,
Penny

By: David W.G. Mackenzie

David W.G. Mackenzie — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 17:31:53 +0000

To Sybil and the Butterfield Family:

Please accept my condolence in respect of James’ final voyage.

His was a long, full and accomplished life which somewhat mitigates our sadness at its inevitable conclusion.

What I will always remember about James was his utter cheerfulness in the face of everything. He was a truly jolly, kind and gentle fellow. Even when he was in a disapproving mood or taking a dim view of the world he managed to kept his good temper and sense of humour. I never observed him otherwise.

He will be greatly missed along with the cohort of his generation who have made or are about to make their last sail past.

Sincerely,

David W.G. Mackenzie

By: Connie Channon Douglass

Connie Channon Douglass — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 09:18:55 +0000

Dear Sybil, I am devestated to think that Death claimed James after that wretched business with Joy. The Butterfield family is always in my heart and head and I hope you are “bearing up under the strain”. I know what the death of a beloved partner can do to a person. Be strong and remember that he loved you and the family like no one else I ever knew.

Love ya

Connie

By: Patrick Harrison

Patrick Harrison — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 02:58:40 +0000

So very sorry to hear about James. It was my pleasure to know him. All my best to the family. Ian and Linda will be attending the funeral on my behalf. Love, Pat

By: Gareth Eldridge CDR retired RCN/CAF

Gareth Eldridge CDR retired RCN/CAF — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:56:40 +0000

Sybil and family,
I am so sad to learn of the passing of Jim. As my captain back in 1960 in HMCS Fundy his superb knowledge of seamanship and advice to me in matters of leadership served me well in my many years in the navy. A great gentleman who will be sorely missed by many.
Gareth

By: Rasma Bertz

Rasma Bertz — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:42:30 +0000

While Sybil is said to be the grand matriarch of many musical circles in Victoria, James was always the face of humour and encouragement for many of us who grew up singing there during the 70s, 80s and 90s. And the life of the after parties!

I will miss James’ face in my future audiences, but am grateful for the opportunity to sing for him one last time at the memorial.

Much love to Sybil, Ben and the rest of the family. Rasma

By: Laurinda Beimers (nee Williamson)

Laurinda Beimers (nee Williamson) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:19:30 +0000

Dear Christopher and Ben,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please share my condolences with your Mother and the rest of your family. May you know comfort and peace with his passing. My prayers are with you.

Laurinda

By: Commander Jeff Agnew

Commander Jeff Agnew — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:41:18 +0000

Dear Sybil and family,
Jolly Uncle James! That is what my siblings and I called James. He was indeed the most jolly of fellows. As kids growing up he used to regale us with stories of the sea, his travels, his beloved family, all the while making humourous jokes and keeping us all fully engaged. Perhaps entranced is a better description.
I remember his head stands and magic tricks. But most of all, as I grew a little older, I treasured our endless hours of conversation about the sea and life in general. His perspective on any topic was always very enlightening. The credo he always shared with me was, “You know, you only go around the bouy once in life, so you better make the best of it.”
James, Jolly Uncle James, will be sadly missed by all. Please accept the most heart felt of condolences from the Agnews…Jeffrey, Jane, Barbara and Robert.
Cheers, Jeff