In memory of

James William Maben

January 31, 1927 - October 17, 2017

Jim died peacefully, after a struggle with Alzheimers and finally pneumonia, at Wellington Park Care Centre where he was cared for during the past year with the utmost sensitivity, kindness and compassion. He will be missed by many, but especially by his beloved wife Ruth and daughter Shelagh who were with him at the end. Sadly his much loved son Paul died in 2013. Jim was born to Colin and Mary Ann and raised in Brantford by his widowed mother from the age of 5. He was predeceased by his five older sisters and leaves his younger brother David and his wife Dorene and many loving nieces and nephews and greats. Jim was a passionate educator and musician who touched countless lives. He began a teaching career with the Toronto Board of Education in the 1950’s and retired as Coordinator of Music in 1990. He then spent fifteen very happy years as co-founder and conductor of the Toronto Choristers, a large choir of retired educators. A Service of Remembrance of Jim’s inspired life of talent, wisdom, warmth and wit will be held at The Old Mill, 21 Old Mill Road, Toronto on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice. Further details and online condolences will be available at www.etouch.ca

Guestbook

(5 of 12)

Former Student

Entered October 21, 2017 from Toronto, Ont

Mr. Maben was the music teacher at our public school in the 1960's. He encouraged me to join the school choir, and was always happy and really seemed to enjoy his work. I still remember some of the songs he taught us.

Kathy Lundy (Friend and colleague)

Entered October 21, 2017 from Toronto

I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Jim-- a wonderful colleague at the Toronto Board of Education. He was a mentor to me and taught me so much about professional development for teachers in the arts.
My condolences to his family. He was a prince of a guy.

Dolce Little (University Friend of Ruth)

Entered October 21, 2017 from Ottawa On

Remembering the lovely weekend at Bishops msny years ago with Ruth and Jim, friend Aline and my husband Andy. Jim had lots of personality. So, Ruth, I hope your good memories help you through the days ahead.
Much love and a great big hug.
Dolce

Ann Cooper Gay (Music Teacher, Toronto Bd of Education)

Entered October 21, 2017 from Cedar Park, TX

Sending my love and condolences to his wife Ruth and the entire family. What a giant of a beautiful human being who was so supportive of "new" music teachers. He was so inspirational and a word of praise or encouragement from Jim was priceless. Thank you, Jim, for loving my family of musicians and for sharing your talents with so many people and making this earth a better place to live and work. RIP dearest soul!

Sharon Keogh & David Acomba (Friends)

Entered October 23, 2017 from Cobourg ON

Dear Ruth,
Our thoughts are with you. It must be incredibly hard to say goodbye to you beloved soul mate and lifelong partner.
We always loved seeing Jim and you: at Lavada's, and also at our 'pig barn,' and our home in the Kingsway.
Jim was such a lovely man: good-hearted, good-natured, full of fun, and a real musical force. He lived his life so well!
We look forward to joining you at the Old Mill in November 29th.
Please convey our sympathy to Shelagh.
Love, Sharon and David