In Memory of

James

Cowan

Francis

Constable

Obituary for James Cowan Francis Constable

JAMES COWAN FRANCIS CONSTABLE SR.
1933 - 2021

It is with great sadness that the family of the late James Cowan Francis Constable Sr. announce his passing at the WH Twomey Centre in Botwood on the 23rd of November 2021 at the age of 88. He is predeceased by his wife Amanda (Temple) Constable. Left with fond and countless loving memories are; son, James Constable (Suzie Lalonde) of Hay River NWT; daughters Susan Constable (Robert Cooper) of Ontario and Tracey Constable (Leonard Green) of California. Also leaving to mourn are grandchildren: Thomas Constable, Keira Constable, Stephanie Constable, Dylan Constable Cooper, Callum Constable Peterson and great grandson Archer Constable. Brothers in law, James Temple (Mary) and Stan Temple (Edna): Nieces, Denise Hillier, Dorothy Temple and Debbie Penton (Pierce). Nephew, Chris Temple (Joan); Cousins; Evie, Lisa, Dave, Jim, Mary(sis) several extended family members and many many friends.

Laird James, was a proud Veteran, lifelong member of the Canadian Legion, a member of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Grand Falls-Windsor where he was a singing sidesman and choir member. He was the proprietor and operator of the world famous Oasis Club at Leech Brook (Thunder Brook) for 32 years where, along with his late wife Amanda, they raised 3 children. After closing the Oasis in 1989, he went to work in the paper mill in Grand Falls Windsor.

He retired from the paper mill in 1992 a job that he loved. He was heard to say more than once, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” He loved the camaraderie of working with the guys at the mill ,not to mention the laughter and practical jokes! It was a reminder to him of the days when he was with the Royal Canadian Artillery in Germany post WWII with NATO where he was a dispatch motorcycle rider. He also loved being a Royal Canadian Army Cadet Officer and civilian instructor for many years. He influenced many young people. As a testament to his physical and mental strength, In his late 50’s, he earned his brown belt in Shotokan Karate. He always had a smile and or a quick witted comment for everyone he met. One of his quirky talents was his ability to give almost everyone he met a nick name. He had an uncanny knack to communicate with all animals akin to the pied piper. He truly loved them.

He was a very generous and kind hearted soul. There were many mornings while making breakfast that we would be treated to a very loud rendition of one of his musical vocal creations! He was known over the years to load the car up on Christmas eve with gifts for neighbours . Even if it was just a few chocolate bars for the children, he made sure no one went without a little something. There were many people who were able to go swimming over the years because of a ride in the back of his pick up truck as he drove back from town. He spent countless hours at the cabin in Point of Bay face fist and elbows deep in grease “tweaking” the make and break engine of his beloved Grand Banks dory! He had a zest for life and shenanigans were a daily occurrence with adults and children alike.

His trademark fingers to the back of someone’s head in every picture became a common thing for him to do once the grandkids came along. Stand easy soldier, your job is done, we’ll pick up the torch from here. R.I.P.

Sincerest appreciation and thanks to the staff for the excellent care dad received during his stay at The Twomey Centre in Botwood. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Michael Goodyear at Central Funeral Homes GFW.

Donations can be made in his name to the SPCA GFW or charity of your choice.