Obituary of James “Jim” Joseph Dodson

DODSON, James “Jim”, “JD”- Age 63 of Bedford passed away March 23, 2020 at home. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Gerald and Eileen (McGuigan) Dodson. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Ellen (Aikens) Dodson of 39 years; daughter, Kelly Dodson and husband Ben Gouthro; brothers, Jerry Dodson and Greg (Denise) Dodson; many beloved aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by father, Gerald Dodson; mother, Eileen (McGuigan) Dodson; father-in-law, John Aikens; mother-in-law, Annette Aikens; sister, Kathy Dodson; sister-in-law, Marj Dodson; and his beloved dog Layla. Anyone who ever met Jim would agree he was a “Simple Man” with a “Heart of Gold”. Jim’s selflessness and relentless kindness touched the lives of many people. He was the most genuine, caring and optimistic soul. He was always doing things for others and took in friends and family when they needed help, without hesitation. No matter what Jim did in life, he gave it his all and put his whole heart into it. He proudly owned and operated Bedford Air Ventilation Service. He always went above and beyond for his customers and had loyal suppliers. If you had the pleasure of knowing Jim, you would agree that the best way to describe him would be “passionate and thoughtful” - not to mention he always spoke his mind. He loved his family and he was always baking or cooking for them. His collection of old family recipes certainly got put to good use, especially at Christmas. BBQ was definitely his favourite type of meal to cook. Summer days spent BBQing on the deck with him are some of our most cherished memories. He adored anything and everything to do with music. He always had his favourite songs playing and his guitar strumming - music defined who he was. He loved his 1976 black Dodge van and was proud of all the work he and his brother Greg put into it. He loved woodworking, gardening and playing pool. He watched Coronation Street with his wife every Sunday (even though he said he didn't like the show, we all knew he loved it). Weekend shopping trips with his wife and daughter were outings that he thoughtfully “tolerated”, yet found entertaining - typically ending off with a visit to Jim’s favourite spot – Off Track Brewing. He always shared stories of his grandparent’s farm in PEI and the best potatoes ever “Green Mountain Potatoes”. He loved road trips to the Annapolis Valley and wished to retire there some day. He adored his “Golden Girls” (golden retrievers) - Capri, Lucy, and Como, AKA “Larry, Curly and Moe”. They were his favourite dogs and he spoiled them rotten. To the “best dad ever” and the most devoted husband - you are deeply loved and will truly be missed. You were taken from us too soon, but will be forever carried in our hearts and cherished in our many memories. We will all strive to be more like you. You have reached your “Stairway to Heaven”. In the words of James Taylor - “You’ve Got a Friend”. A special thanks to the paramedics and police that helped support the family during his sudden passing, their professionalism and sincere kindness will never be forgotten. Arrangements and Cremation are under the care of T. J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 71 McQuade Lake Crescent. Memorial donations may be made to Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, Metro Turning Point Centre or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. A celebration of life will be held at a later date with family and friends (post-pandemic).