Obituary for James Donald Dilay
It is with heavy hearts that the family of James “Jim” Dilay announce his peaceful passing on April 7, 2021 at the age of 71.
Jim was born in Winnipeg in 1949 to Walter and Mary Dilay. He attended the University of Manitoba graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1971. After graduating, Jim moved to Alberta where his career spanned over 40 years with the Energy Resources Conservation Board, more than 20 of them as a Board Member. He became a respected figure in the oil and gas industry and shared his knowledge of oil and gas regulation as an Executive Fellow at The School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary. Upon retiring, Jim’s love for his work continued as he contracted his services both locally and abroad.
In 1968, Jim married his lifelong love Arlene (nee Dalenger). Jim and Arlene met in junior high at the age of 13 and recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. Family was the centre of Jim’s life with nothing bringing him more joy than spending time with Arlene, his children Tracey (Scott), Kelly, Kim (Brant) and Jeff (Roberta), and his grandchildren Jorie (Ellie), Katie, Hailey (James), Jack, Cullen, Chase and Jess. Jim was delighted to welcome his first great grandchild, Ivie, in 2019 who will hear many great stories about her Papa. Jim also leaves behind his siblings Alan, Richard (Monique) and Eleanor (Tony), and his nieces Justine, Ariane, Katrine, Rachelle, Alexa and nephew Daniel.
Jim and Arlene enjoyed time together sharing good laughs, listening to Motown and eating fine food. The two also loved to vacation, sharing memorable times together in their favorite place, Las Vegas, and with good friends in Mexico. Jim’s generous nature attracted many great friends and golfing partners. He deeply cherished his friendships, many of which were lifelong.
Jim will be loved and missed more than words can say.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Foothills Country Hospice Society. We cannot thank them enough for their compassion and kindness.
To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Jim, visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.
Jim was born in Winnipeg in 1949 to Walter and Mary Dilay. He attended the University of Manitoba graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1971. After graduating, Jim moved to Alberta where his career spanned over 40 years with the Energy Resources Conservation Board, more than 20 of them as a Board Member. He became a respected figure in the oil and gas industry and shared his knowledge of oil and gas regulation as an Executive Fellow at The School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary. Upon retiring, Jim’s love for his work continued as he contracted his services both locally and abroad.
In 1968, Jim married his lifelong love Arlene (nee Dalenger). Jim and Arlene met in junior high at the age of 13 and recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. Family was the centre of Jim’s life with nothing bringing him more joy than spending time with Arlene, his children Tracey (Scott), Kelly, Kim (Brant) and Jeff (Roberta), and his grandchildren Jorie (Ellie), Katie, Hailey (James), Jack, Cullen, Chase and Jess. Jim was delighted to welcome his first great grandchild, Ivie, in 2019 who will hear many great stories about her Papa. Jim also leaves behind his siblings Alan, Richard (Monique) and Eleanor (Tony), and his nieces Justine, Ariane, Katrine, Rachelle, Alexa and nephew Daniel.
Jim and Arlene enjoyed time together sharing good laughs, listening to Motown and eating fine food. The two also loved to vacation, sharing memorable times together in their favorite place, Las Vegas, and with good friends in Mexico. Jim’s generous nature attracted many great friends and golfing partners. He deeply cherished his friendships, many of which were lifelong.
Jim will be loved and missed more than words can say.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Foothills Country Hospice Society. We cannot thank them enough for their compassion and kindness.
To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Jim, visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.