James Charles Dempster

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James Charles Dempster on July 14, 2026, at the age of 46. James passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, determination, and unconditional love for those closest to him. James was a hardworking, self-taught builder whose passion for construction began at an early age. He loved creating, building, and tackling projects that others thought impossible. Through determination, perseverance, and countless hours of hard work, he became a respected and successful developer. Those who worked with James admired not only his knowledge and craftsmanship but also his honesty, generosity, and willingness to help others. He took great pride in his work and believed every project deserved to be done right. While James loved building homes, his greatest accomplishment was building relationships. He had an enormous heart and cared deeply for family, friends, neighbours, clients, and even strangers. He believed that kindness, respect, forgiveness, and love were life’s greatest accomplishments. James also had a remarkable sense of humour that could brighten any room. He had an incredible gift for making people laugh, whether through his quick wit, playful sarcasm, unforgettable stories, or perfectly timed one-liners. Family gatherings, job sites, cottage weekends, or simply sitting around with friends were never dull when James was there. Even during life’s most difficult moments, he somehow found a way to bring a smile to those around him. His laughter was contagious, his stories unforgettable, and his ability to make others feel comfortable was one of his greatest gifts. Above everything else, James lived for his children. His son, Oliver Dempster, and his daughter, Olivia Dempster, were the centre of his world from the very beginning of their lives. Every decision he made was with their future, happiness, and well-being in mind. He also held deep appreciation and respect for their mother, Natalie McDowell, with whom he shared the blessing of raising their two beautiful children. James was predeceased by his beloved father, Scott Dempster; his cherished grandparents, Marylou “Didi” Blackwell and Charles Blackwell; Dr. Frank Dempster and Dorothy Dempster; his beloved great-grandmother, Moddy Hardy; his uncle, Doug Dempster; and his aunts, Carol Merchant and Jane Dempster. He will be forever cherished by his loving mother, Karen Blackwell; his sister, Sarah Cook, and brother-in-law, Chad Cook; his beloved nieces, Avery Cook and Brinley Cook; his aunt, Robyn McDonald; his uncle, Bruce Dempster; his cousins on his mother’s side, Lindsay, Collin, Deirdre, and Andrew; his cousins on his father’s side, John, Ashley, Will, Ted, and Jennifer; along with his extended family, lifelong friends, neighbours, colleagues, and all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him throughout his life. James believed that life was never measured by money or possessions, but by the memories we create, the people we love, and the kindness we leave behind. His legacy lives on in the homes he built, the friendships he treasured, and, most importantly, in the hearts of his children and everyone who loved him. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported James throughout his journey with cancer. Your kindness, prayers, compassion, and friendship brought comfort during his most difficult days and will never be forgotten. A funeral service will be held at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church – Islington, 3962 Bloor Street West, Etobicoke, ON at 2 pm on Saturday, July 18th, 2026. A private interment service will take place on Monday at Thornton Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in James’ memory. Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed. Arrangements entrusted to Legacy Funeral and Cremation Services Inc.600-55 Cedar Point Drive, Barrie, ON, L4N 5R7