In memory of
James Douglas Dart
July 13, 1944 - January 3, 2025
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of James Dart on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the age of 80. James was born and raised by Margaret (Brown) and Douglas Dart in Trent River, Ontario, brother to Kathryn Martin and Christine King. James quickly became an adventurer and left home as a teen to make his own way in the big city. He had a creative mind, a wandering spirit and a stubborn streak of independence. James started his career in carpentry, moved into stage design and music production, and spent many years in home design and renovation, always choosing to be his own boss. He generously shared his skills with his children and grandchildren, preferring to teach you a new skill rather than do it for you. Although he was not the most patient instructor, he would always come back the next time you called for his construction wisdom.
James loved to explore. Travel didn't have to be extravagant and ideally involved little planning. And, if he could bring along a fellow traveler and surprise them with something new and interesting, even better.
James's greatest satisfaction in life came from ensuring a strong bond between all of his children. He loved to organize then sit back and quietly witness them all connecting at regular family gatherings. James is lovingly remembered by: his children, Lori Buchanan (Rob), Craig Dart (Kari), Lisa Russell (Jason), Jay Dart (Angela), Jessica Dart (Matt Riley), and Justin Dart (Rebecca); his grandchildren, Karn (Rachel), Alexander (Rebecca), Benjamin, Nicolas (Cassie), Isaac, Blythe, Eliza, Chloe, Elsa, Addison, Iver, Lucas and Isla; and his great-grandchildren, Lennon, Elliot and Rosie. He will also be greatly missed by his very loving partner of over 30 years, Yola Mastrogiovanni.
Cremation has taken place, and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. For those who wish, donations may be made in James’s memory to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or to your local food bank.
“Not all who wander are lost”- J. R. R. Tolkien
James loved to explore. Travel didn't have to be extravagant and ideally involved little planning. And, if he could bring along a fellow traveler and surprise them with something new and interesting, even better.
James's greatest satisfaction in life came from ensuring a strong bond between all of his children. He loved to organize then sit back and quietly witness them all connecting at regular family gatherings. James is lovingly remembered by: his children, Lori Buchanan (Rob), Craig Dart (Kari), Lisa Russell (Jason), Jay Dart (Angela), Jessica Dart (Matt Riley), and Justin Dart (Rebecca); his grandchildren, Karn (Rachel), Alexander (Rebecca), Benjamin, Nicolas (Cassie), Isaac, Blythe, Eliza, Chloe, Elsa, Addison, Iver, Lucas and Isla; and his great-grandchildren, Lennon, Elliot and Rosie. He will also be greatly missed by his very loving partner of over 30 years, Yola Mastrogiovanni.
Cremation has taken place, and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. For those who wish, donations may be made in James’s memory to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or to your local food bank.
“Not all who wander are lost”- J. R. R. Tolkien