James "Jimmy" Aubrey Gaunce

James Aubrey Gaunce, Jimmy to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on Oct 18th, 2022, surrounded by his family. Feisty until the end, he made the very most of his 93 years.

Born in Saint John, on July 3^rd, 1929, Jim was the son of Aubrey Lionel Gaunce and Jessie Flewelling. He grew up with his sister Iris Teakles and his brother Edward "Red" Gaunce in the then tiny community of Grand Bay. As a young boy he loved to fish and hunt and could be found playing hockey on the ponds. He spent his early years working at the Winterport, and then had a career in carpentry working for the union.

He met the love of his life, Muriel, at a dance and soon swept her off her feet. They were married on December 10^th, 1953 and spent 69 years together. Soon after they were married the family grew. Jim and Muriel had two daughters, Deborah (Steve Harder) and Linda (Jerry Thibodeau) and three sons, Little Jim, Gary (Maryellen) and Terry. Summers were spent taking the family to the home in Gagetown, or on the many camping trips often spent in the rain at My Brother’s Place Campground in Maine and South Branch Lake. Winters included cross country skiing and sliding down the front lawn, flying on the crazy carpets.

Not one to miss a game, he could often be found in his favorite spot at the rink or the field, heckling the players and catching up with his friends. Jim loved sports. He also loved to paint and carve and create pieces that would shock the neighbors and draw smiles and honks from the people who passed by his home. He spent countless hours in his basement creating and he enjoyed sharing his work with others. There was always a bonfire lit in the evenings, for anyone who wanted to stop in.

Known to his nine grandchildren as Papa, Grampy, and Grump, he spent many days with them beachcombing, fishing, and watching them roller-skate from the front porch, as his records played. He never missed a Gagetown fair with them. His softer side came out with his great grandchildren, whom he adored. They never left his home without a treat, seeing his famous teeth trick, and a big bear hug.

He was stubborn, smart, and never stopped learning. He was predeceased by his sons, Little Jim and Terry. He loved his family deeply and will be greatly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Arrangements in the care of the St. George Funeral Home, 26 Portage Street, St George NB.  A Celebration of Life will take place at Brundage Point River Center, Grand Bay Westfield, on Sunday, October 23^rd, from 2- 5 pm. Come join us for light refreshments and share your favorite memories of Jim.