James Joseph Ulrich (Aged 72), also known as Jim/Jr., was surrounded by love, family and friends, as he passed early in the morning, Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Jim was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, on August 15, 1953, to Kay and Jimmy Ulrich.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Aileen Ulrich; son, James; daughter, Caitlin (Matthew) Ulrich-Pickles; brothers, Tom/Tucker (Rosemarie) and John (Margaret); cousin, Cathy (Robert) Stewart. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and of course Milo. He was predeceased by his parents, Kay and Jimmy Ulrich. He loved them all.

Growing up in Dominion, Cape Breton, he was the oldest of three sons. From a young age, he adopted his father’s love for new experiences and applied it to a life full of laughs and memories. His mischievous adventures with his brothers growing up will never be forgotten and will be continued to be shared around kitchen table and family dinners for years to come.

Jim’s pursuit of knowledge allowed him to receive a scholarship to attend university at 16 years old. He successfully obtained his Bachelor of Natural Sciences from St. Francis Xavier University and Masters of Anatomy from Dalhousie University. His thirst for education further fostered his professional career as a Cardiovascular and Thoracic Medical technology specialist, where for almost 40 years, he serviced the Atlantic medical community supporting many talented physicians, specialists, and nurses. He was a man of wisdom, guidance, and he did so with precision and care.

Jim balanced his ambitious professional life with an unwavering commitment to his family, where he was known as Dad, Hunny, or Junior. He was known for his wisdom, humour, and steadfast enduring love. He was the epitome of hard work, quiet strength, unwavering dedication and devotion to his family.

Jim’s advice was sought by many, and his calm presence was a source of comfort and strength to all who knew him. He was compassionate and generous to those around him, and his acts of kindness were done without a spotlight. He had a life that was too short, but well-lived. His legacy will always be cherished, and his generous spirit carries on and continues to inspire.

Dad was a class act, jokester, a good friend, and the best father. He worked too hard to leave us this early and we will all miss his presence. We loved him dearly and were with him at the end.

Our deepest appreciation to the unending list of medical team and staff of 4C, Palliative Care and the Cancer Clinic at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their exceptional and heartfelt kindness they showed Dad/Jim while he was under their care.

As per his wishes, there will be a private service held for close family to gather in remembrance and gratitude for the years shared with Jim. In lieu of flowers, please continue Dad’s tradition of donating Teddy Bears to the IWK Health at Child Life Services. His job was tough, and when he could offer kids some comfort, he did. For information on how you may donate, please contact 1 (902) 470-8426.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.