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James Patrick, MD, FRCSC McAuley

December 28, 2017

Passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 28th, 2017, after a heroic and dignified battle against a brain tumour. Adoring husband to his wife Diane of 36 years. Son of Frances, brother of Michael (Dianne). Loving father to Erin (Mark) and Alexander (Lauren). Proud grandfather of Patrick and Sebastian. Cherished friend of his patients and colleagues throughout the world. Jim was a singularly talented and dedicated Orthopaedic surgeon who approached the care of his patients with the same love and kindness with which he treated all those he came across. Beyond being a world class surgeon, his family was everything to him and he never let them forget it. A true gentleman in the purest sense of the word, and a devout Catholic, he embodied the virtues of compassion and gentleness. May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves. The family would like to express their sincerest thanks to all of their friends who gave their help so generously, and in particular to MarieCris Macatiguib – their angel whose tender care of Jim in his final days is a debt they can never repay. A Visitation will be held at the WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-9:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. GEORGE PARISH, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Cremation and Interment will follow at a later date. 

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I haven't seen or talked to Jimmy since our Halifax Grammar School days many, many years ago, and only happened upon his obituary by chance many months later. I can't speak to his skills as a surgeon, but he was a genuinely nice guy when he was a teenager, a friend to everyone and without a hint of superiority about him despite being so talented - the rare fellow who everyone liked. I'm sorry to hear of his passing at such a young age. I'm sure he was a fine husband, father and grandfather, as he so obviously was a doctor. My deepest condolences to all his family.

~ David Guy

Chére Diane et famille, I was very saddened by Paul's email announcing Jim's passing away after a long valiant battle with brain cancer. I was so happy to see him on the occasion of the 50th reunion of the University of Ottawa, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. I remember when he first came to Ottawa as a young attending and was always impressed by his cheerfulness, abilities as a surgeon, teacher and director of the residency program as well as being a loving husband to you and a loving father to your children. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. We send our loving thoughts and prayers your way. Warmest regards, Jacques D'Astous and Kathryn Atwood Salt Lake City, Utah

~ Jacques D'Astous

Jim was a true true gentleman and a fantastic teacher! Canadian Orthopedics will miss him. God Bless him and his family.

~ Jim Powell

Dear Diane and family,so sorry to hear of Jims passing.Thinking of you and the kids.Jim was not only a great othopod but a great person.Sue and i will miss him.

~ Allen Profitt

Dear Diane and family, sincere condolences. Unfortunately Gerri and I cannot attend the funeral mass but our thoughts and prayers are with you constantly. Jim was very special and it was our privilege to know him and call him friend. Love and God bless Des and Gerri Hamill

~ Desmond Hamill

To Diane, all of Jim's family and friends, my heart breaks for this news of Jim's passing. He was, without a doubt, the sweetest, kindest, most down to earth and selfless man I have ever been blessed enough to meet. I had the pleasure of working with Jim in the Ortho clinic for 8 years. I got to experience first hand how much his patient's loved him, his selfless offers to Residents of a reference or anything they needed to further their careers and his joy in keeping in touch with all who moved on, including myself when Jim so graciously wrote me a reference for the job I applied for this past Spring, that was closer to mine and my husband's new home in Bayfield, ON. I feel such overwhelming love for this incredible man who was an excellent Surgeon, an incredible friend and a beautiful example of transparency, grace and positivity/optimism during this hard fought battle with cancer. You are dearly missed Jim, and I know you are looking down on us from heaven. I am saddened that I will no longer be able to attend the visitation and mass, due to emergency surgery that I had on NYE. Diane, please know that I will most definitely be there in spirit and send you all my love and comfort.

~ Meaghan Whalen Young & Shawn Young

Dear Family McAuley, It was a great honour to be a fellow in London and to experience the warm and friendly personality of Jim McAuley. I ll always keep good memories. My sincere condolences to his family. Warmest regards, Pieter-Jan Vandekerckhove

~ Pieter-Jan Vandekerckhove

Chére Diane, nos sincéres condoléances à toi et à toute ta famille. Nous manquerons Jim qui a été un mentor extraordinaire, un collégue et un excellent chirurgien. Nos priéres sont avec vous, salut Jim. Mona et Guy.

~ Guy Moreau

My deepest sympathy to the McAuley family for your loss. I hope you will find peace and solace in your fond memories of Jim. Orthopaedics has lost one of its great gentlemen.

~ Clare Rimnac

To the family, Our mother , Elsie Fesuk, was Dr. McAuley's patient for many years through hip and knee surgeries. He was exactly as you described... attentive, compassionate and professional. He was an extraordinary person and his kindness towards our mother, who will be 90 this spring, was much appreciated. He will be sorely missed.

~ Elsie Fesuk, Lisa Fesuk and Nancy Blackwell

Erin, We are so sorry to hear about your Dad passing. We never knew him but heard good things about him. He will be truly missed. Tony & I want to give you our deepest sympathies to you and your families at this sad time.

~ Tony & Mary Vergeer

Diane and family . Linda and I extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family at this most difficult time .Jim was a kind ,thoughtful and generous person , to patient s and friends alike and an extraordinary doctor and orthopedic surgeon .He was a role model , who led by example , qualities which made him an excellent teacher and leader in medicine and surgery . But above all, Jim's most important legacy will be those he left behind ,especially you Diane , and his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you .

~ Cecil and Linda Rorabeck

Diane Tracy and I offer our condolences to you , Alex and Erin. Jim was a unique blend of talent and humility who served as a role model to many of us who worked alongside of him and we will be left with his example among his many legacies. We wish you peace and hope the thoughts and prayers of those he touched offer some comfort.

~ Geoff and Tracy Dervin

So sad to hear! Jim was a great mentor to me during my fellowship at University Hospital, and such an all around gentleman. I remember very fondly the fabulous hospitality of the McAuley household! My sincerest condolences to Diane and the rest of the family from Tim and Ewa Kostamo.

~ Tim Kostamo

Dear Diane and family! I will never forget that Jim was the one who accepted me into the orthopedic world. He was always a tremendous example for all of us, residents and colleagues alike. He was also most generous with his time, experience, and advice, and of course pizza on call! I am sorry he is gone. Lyse's and my thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time!

~ Philip Fleuriau Chateau

Diane and family, my deepest condolences for your loss. Jim was a wonderful leader and educator in orthopaedics. He inspired me as a surgeon and physician and his efforts amd values will live on through his colleagues and those who had the privilege of training under him. His contributions to the orthopaedic community will greatly missed.

~ Tom Turgeon

I had the privilege of doing a fellowship year with Jim in Ottawa. He was a superb surgeon and an excellent mentor for those of us who went through the program. He has left a wonderful legacy in all those he guided. And - he was a lot of fun to work with! He will not be forgotten.

~ Barney Blastorah

Condolences on the loss of a very fine man. His kindness, compassion and exceptional skill have given me back my mobility. I will always be grateful and remember him fondly.

~ Eunice Diamond

Diane and Family, please accept my sincerest and deepest sympathy for your loss. Dr. McAuley was a very nice man and I was very saddened by the news. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. Sincerely, Tina

~ Tina Krulc

Jim was a friend, a colleague and a mentor for many years at the University of Ottawa Orthopaedic Program. He was a supurb Director of our Postgraduate program and a role model for our resident staff. Our condolances to Diane and family who were a loving complement and stimulous to Jim's renarkable orthopaedic career. Per ardua ad astra.

~ Merv & Marilyn Letts

Diane and family On behalf of the COA I extend to you our deepest sympathy. Jim was a wonderful supporter and worked hard on our behalf for many years. Personally, I shall always be grateful for having had the opportunity train together in the Dalhousie program. He excelled academically and clinically and set a very high standard for all of us. He will be dearly missed.

~ Kevin and Anne Orrell

The MacAuley Family : on behalf of the Class of '80, Dalhousie Medical school, we offer our condolences for your great loss. Jim was a great asset to our class and a fine gentle man. Wonderful memories of many great times shared will stay with us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you .

~ Michael and Judy MacKenzie

Diane and family, please accept our sincere condolences. We were blessed to have had Jim as a mentor and friend since our time in London. He has touched many lives, including ours, with his true kindness and gentle strength. Although we cannot be physically present, our prayers are with you as you face the days ahead.

~ Keegan & Krysta Au

Deeply saddened to hear this terrible news. Jim was a wonderful classmate and friend. We admired his ability to deliver excellent clinical care with his engaging and outgoing personality. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Don Pugsley and Kathy MacPherson

Diane: It was truly an honour to have worked with Jim, an international leader in his field and a most respected and admired clinician. Jim will forever be remembered at the Ottawa Hospital as a wonderful colleague and dear friend. Susan and I extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.

~ Don Miller

Our deepest sympathy. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Brendan O'Neill and family.

~ Brendan O'Neill

Dr. McAuley crossed my path in 2010 after my first hip replacement in 2004 resulted in a split femur. In 2010 I had the blessed privilege of having Dr. McAuley orchestrate my second hip replacement. Before surgery at 4:00 a.m. I asked him to promise three things, don't be late for surgery, don't party the night before and don't break the other femur. He promised me "two out of three" with a wicked smile. 8:00 p.m. he woke me to tell me that he could give me two promises. The femur split on the right leg but his reply was "don't worry - now they both matched". His humour and compassion for his patients will long be remembered. My sadness and condolences and gratitude for the opportunity to know him. Your family has been blessed with his presence. Thank you for sharing his life with us, his grateful patients.

~ Louise Birchall

Diane, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. It was a privilege to work with Jim over the years. Despite his ongoing health issues, Jim never lost his sense of humour and always maintained a positive attitude. I will never forget his kindness, generosity, and spirit for life. He was truly special and I will miss him.

~ Vira Watson

Dear Diane and family, we were so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I was privileged to have Jim as a friend and colleague since being Fellows together in Toronto. He had many,many wonderful qualities and above all a good name in every respect. He was a star but always humble. Barbie and I offer you our deepest condolences. May the wonderful memories you have and the exceptional way you all cared for him give you strength.

~ David Zukor

to Jim's family, all my sympathies on what must be a great loss. I am sure we all have great memories of Jim.

~ John Lorimer

Diane and family, our sincere condolences for the lost of your loved one. I did not have the chance to meet Jim, but Nicole and Richard described him as a very loving person, and a great surgeon. May God be with you all during those hard times. Daniel and Suzelle Delorme, friends of Nicole and Richard.

~ Daniel and Suzelle Delorme

On behalf of the staff at IMVH in Alexandria, Va. we wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the all the family! Dr McAuley was definetly a staff favorite here, a great bedside manner we would say. We are honored to have worked with Dr McAuley!

~ IMVH OR

Diane and the childrens, A word to explain our sympathy to all of you. Jim was a great man , doctor, father and a nice husband to Diane. Our thoughts are with you. Jean-Marc & Jacqueline Houle

~ Jean-Marc & Jacqueline Houle

Diane and the childrens, A word to explain our sympathy to all of you. Jim was a great man , doctor, father and a nice husband to Diane. Our thoughts are with you. Jean-Marc & Jacqueline Houle St-Pascal Baylon, Ontario. K0A3N0

~ Jean-Marc & Jacqueline Houle

Dear McAuley Family Your husband and father will always be in my heart. Kind, compassionate so loving to his patients. He was so human, at an appointment after my surgery I told him that I would like to give him a hug but could not. He said WHERE IS IT WRITTEN THAT I DO NOT TAKE HUGS. May God comfort and console you.

~ Carlene Parkinson

Dear Diane, Erin, Alexander, Aunt Fran, and Family. We are so sorry to hear the sad news of Jimmy's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. We knew and will remember Jimmy as a wonderful, caring and accomplished individual who loved his family above all.

~ Helen (McAuley) and Bill Banning

Dear McAuley Family: I was fortunate enough to have Dr. McAuley as my doctor many years ago at the Ottawa General Hospital. He was a kind and gentle man. He was very caring and a good listener. No ego with Dr. McAuley. He was knowledgeable and confident and I am grateful to have had him in my life at a time when I really needed help. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

~ Lynne Barber

To Aunt Fran, Diane and your entire family - We were so sad to hear of the news of Jimmy's passing. We are thinking of you and remember many happy times in Hope Bay so many years ago. Our heartfelt condolences.

~ Diane McAuley & Jim Longlade and family

Diane and family, please accept my sincere sympathy to you and your family, you and I have talked about this for year s although not much since you became grandparents, I am thinking of you and know what you are going through, just know that Jim is finally at peace and without pain. Look forward to seeing you at Remark sometime to chat. Sincerely Patti Barrett

~ Patti Barrett

Chére Diane et famille, Je vous envoie toutes mes sympathies. Mes pensées sont avec vous en ce temps difficile.

~ Louise Brais-Langis

I will miss his beautiful smile! Dr. Mc Auley was a wonderful surgeon and he will be greatly missed! My deepest condolences.

~ Laurie Russell

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a unique individual and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Joe and Joanne O'Neil. Ottawa

~ Joe O'Neil

To Jim McAuley's family, on behalf of all the medical students, residents and fellows of the University of Ottawa Orthopaedic Program we extend our deepest condolences. Paul E. Beaule, Head, Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Ottawa.

~ Paul E. Beaule

Diane we are so sorry to receive this news, it would be impossible to know how many lives Jim touched, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your familynat this very sad time

~ Lesley and Tom Mulligan

Dear Diane and family, I'll always remember the kindness and caring he had for us at AORI, all of his patients, and anyone who had the opportunity to meet him. My sincerest condolences to you all. Neone

~ Neone Smith

Diane, Erin & Alexander: Jim, as well as you all, have deeply touched our lives. Jim has been in my prayers since his first diagnosis. It's wonderful that Jim was able to spend this Christmas together with family; there is nothing better. We know this is a difficult time but knowing you are surrounded by family and friends should bring great comfort. Jim will continue to live on in all of our hearts. Warm, loving regards, Chuck & Barb Clark (Iowa City)

~ Charles (Chuck) & Barb Clark

Diane, Erin & Alexander: Jim, as well as you all, have deeply touched our lives. Jim has been in my prayers since his first diagnosis. It's wonderful that Jim was able to spend this Christmas together with family; there is nothing better. We know this is a difficult time but knowing you are surrounding by family and friends should bring great comfort. Jim will continue to live on in all of our hearts. Warm, loving regards, Chuck & Barb Clark (Iowa City)

~ Charles (Chuck) & Barb Clark

Our love and thoughts are with you all at this very sad time.

~ Graham & Donella Lawson

I am very sorry for your loss. Please know you are all in my prayers.

~ Mary O'Connor

Thinking of you & your family during this difficult time.

~ Jennifer Broadhead

Truly the kindest man I know. He is loved. My thoughts are with you Diane, as always. Jim was a treasure.

~ Connie Feke

Such a wonderful person, funny, kind and devoted to his family. My deepest sympathies Diane to you and your family. ❤️

~ Marianne

Jim was a generous soul and a mentor as a man, father, grandfather and doctor. My condolences to the family. His strength will continue to inspire me for years.

~ Michael Vergeer

We admired Jim, and Diane, in so many ways. Jim was an excellent orthopaedic surgeon, colleague, 'family man', and an individual we always admired. Carmen and I extend our sincere condolences to the family.

~ Alan Giachino

As a patient of Doctor McAuley for over 15 years I must say that he was the most dedicated and cherished man I have ever known. I truly admired his professional way and manner. He treated me with such respect. He replaced my knee and he was nearing the end of his surgery days. It has been the best knee and no pain. He will be so missed at University Hospital. Sending my deepest condolences to his family at this time. Sincerely, Cathy Elliott, St Marys.

~ Cathy Elliott

Our deepest sympathies go out to all of you. Sending our love and prayers at this most difficult time.

~ Jason, Cheryl and Hailey Engh

I am saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He was a very nice Gentleman. He will always be my brother-in-law and I have such fond memories of us over the years. He had an infectious laugh and beautiful smile. He left this world too early. He is at peace now. Hugs to the Family.

~ Margaret McAuley

Jim always jolly throughout the courageous battle you fought you will always be remembered particularly by surviving older boys who did not believe we would still be around !! Courage to the family throughout this difficult period . Jp and Marie Claire

~ JP Desjardins

Diane and Family, Jim was such a wonderful person. I'll never forget his generosity and graciousness. Deepest condolences, our praying for peace for you and your family. Love, Ashley (and family)

~ Ashley Lilley

Our deepest sympathy to you Diane and the family. We were so sorry to hear the sad news. Basil and Sarah kelly

~ Basil & Sarah Kelly

My deepest sympathy to Dianne, your children and all your family, I will remember Jim for his loving kind ways, such a true gentleman and so very brave. May god bless you all and give you comfort and love at this sad time. Lots of love Ali Phillips. Byron Animal Clinic.

~ Ali Phillips

Dear Diane: My deepest sympathy to you and your family on Jim's passing. I am sorry that I am away and cannot be at the visitation and funeral. May God wrap you in his love and mercy at this difficult time. I will pray for you and Jim. Charlie George

~ Charlie George

Dr Mcauley was truly one of the great human being I have had the pleasure to meet and work with, there was nothing fake about how he felt about people, he truly cared his patients and those of us who worked for him. To the family just know he made a difference in this world and will never be forgotten. I know that special folks like him go a place of peace and I know we will meet again.. Prayers of comfort during this time and real hugs to you Diane

~ Randolph A. Thomas

I am very sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing.I have known him since the 60's. Diane and family Sincere condolences even though we have never met.To Michael and Mrs.McAuley I would like to pass along prayers .Jimmy was a great man,hold on to the memories and he is with Bert now and no more pain.I truely am saddened on hearing this.For my Nieces Maureen and Michelle Uncle Jim will always be in your hearts. Huge loss.:( RIP Jimmy

~ Pamela Rafters

Diane, our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences at this difficult time. Jim was a wonderful human being, always positive and he will certainly be missed. He fought a tough battle, much stronger and much better than anyone thought. It was our privilege to have known him. The world was a better place for him having lived in it.

~ Bas and Rola Masri

Diane and family, my most sincere condolences on Jim's passing. I have been privileged to know him for many years and have nothing but happy memories of his humanity, his keen sense of humour and his unwavering professionalism. We will miss him dearly.

~ Doug Thomson

Diane, my deepest sympathy to you and your family in this difficult time.It was a true pleasure working with him at NHOR. I'll always remember his great smile.

~ Frances Preidis

Diane and family my sincere condolences I work on the ortho ward and had several interactions with Jim along with knowing him personally from Ashley our daughter He was a kind caring wonderful man and will surely be missed by all whom have known him treasure all your memories.

~ Bev Brown

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family! He was a brilliant surgeon,but a beautiful human being He did 5 operations on me,and I will miss his warm and kind heart and his warm smile!

~ Marianne Obertreis

My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.

~ Amy Brown

Dear Diane and Children: We were privileged to have Jim as a dear friend and colleague. His humor, talent and spirit will always be remembered. Jim was indeed a brave hero in our lives and will always remain in our hearts. We pray for inner peace and healing to you, his beloved family.

~ Patty and Jerry Engh

Dear Diane and family Please accept my sincere sympathy on the death of Jim. Wishing you much love and support in the days ahead . Sincerely Alberta,

~ Alberta Holmes

Dear Diane & family, remembering Jim fondly. Knowing that death is near doesn't make it any easier when it arrives. Kind wishes for the future. Carmen

~ Carmen Jones

My deepest condolences to the family I worked with him at Mt Vernon Hosptal in the OR he was a wonderful & careing Surgeon. I will never forget his warm & loving humor.

~ CArol Roteman RN

A long and arduous journey for all - a good man gone too soon. Deepest condolences to Dr Diane and family

~ T J Turner

A wonderful surgeon,but a better human being .I will miss him,but I am so glad that I got to know him.

~ Mike Kilkenny

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. McAuley. He did Ron's first knee replacement in 2007. We always enjoyed our visits with him. He was such a lovely man and will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Dr. McAuley.

~ Ron and Linda Johnston

I am honored to have known Jim, and profoundly saddened by his loss. His was a singularly beautiful soul that will live on in the family he so deeply loved and the legacy he left behind. ~ Olga Foley (The Hip Society, The Knee Society, Rosemont, IL, USA)

~ Olga Foley