Jim and I were on the high school wrestling team together. I learned more from Jim than everyone else put together. He was a great friend.

Jim was an amazing friend and colleague. I met him at the beginning of my academic career and during my doctorate. I was lucky to spend 6 months at UBC at the Institute of Health Promotion Research, in 2000. I learnt many things as a result of the generosity and passion of Jim for everything prevention and health promotion and particularly for those populations of disadvantage.

Of course, I often think of Jim with Lola. Lola was my dog Atka's dream girl. Atka's small, Lola's statuesque, and she just looked right over him! Jim and I always chuckled about that. Jim's passion, commitment and candour made such great contributions - to SPPH and UBC, his students and colleagues - but also to the greater community, particularly the DTES. He is already sorely missed.

Jim provided guidance to many graduate students over the years. I remember asking how many and he humbly stated it was probably over 100. If you had a question, wanted a quick chat, or needed advice then his door was always open. He keenly understood the pressures a student faces while attempting to achieve their own goals of graduating while trying to learn a little bit more about the world. His sense of humour could cause you to laugh out loud but also deliver a lesson. I specifically remember during a discussion about his previous work as a Chair of some endeavour and at some point he said something along the lines of, "I want to be the first couch, I mean they already have plenty of Chairs." That was Jim, a person who believed that everyone should be included the conversation. I will remain grateful for having the opportunity to spend time with him.

Jim's words and actions have inspired many. Jim cared, and he cared deeply. I remember sitting in his office and we talked about my then teenage children - a general catching up chat. At the time, the concern was about university entry. He told me his personal story of not giving up; how he was rejected and rejected for grants on his early career. He laughed, smiled and said: I was not smarter, just more persistent than anyone else. This little, insignificant exchange has had a lasting impact and continues to inspire us. Jim, thank you.