Obituary of Artie James Wilkes

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Artie James Wilkes, loving husband to Anne-Marie Wilkes, announces his unexpected passing, which occurred on Sunday, August 7, 2016 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Amherst, NS on July 4, 1937, he was the son of the late Samuel and Elizabeth (Sonier) Wilkes. Artie spent his early years growing up in Tracadie, NB. Although he was an only child, he was fortunate to have cousins that were like siblings to him – and to them, he was a respected role model. At a young age, he had instilled in him the value of hard work and to have pride for what you have and what you do. He was a true kind and caring gentleman, who would do anything for anyone. Artie was thoughtful, and caring and giving to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As he grew into a young man, he chose to study Accounting at College St. Joseph in Memramcook, NB. He moved to Saint John in the late 1950’s and worked at Irving, Hayward’s Garage, and finally West Side K-Mart – which became Zellers - for 25 years until his retirement. After moving to Saint John he became an involved parishioner of St. Joachim’s Church, where he attended regularly and at one time was involved with helping to train altar servers. In 1966, he married the love of his life, Anne-Marie, who he adored. He was blessed with four children and seven grandchildren, who were the lights of his life. His family near and far all knew the great love he had for them. He had a passion for gardening, especially growing high bush blueberries and tomatoes, and was very proud of his special garden tractor. He enjoyed traveling with Anne-Marie to many destinations to visit lighthouses – a joy of his dear wife that he had grown to appreciate. Artie also loved to tell stories, and was happiest when he was surrounded by his family and friends. In addition to his beloved wife of 50 years, Anne-Marie (Cyr) Wilkes, Artie will be missed by his children, Catherine Wilkes, Mary Davis (Ken), Samuel Wilkes (Vicki), all of Saint John and Andrew Wilkes (Angie) of Kanata, ON; seven grandchildren, Ben, Sophia, Chris, Joseph, Alex, Dominique and Allison; cousins, Samuel Richard (Bertha) of Rogersville, NB, Sanford McLaughlin (Jeannine) of Tracadie, NB, Sandra McLaughlin and Edie Konecny (the late Joe) of London, ON. He was predeceased by a cousin, Hazel McLaughlin Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424) with visiting on Tuesday, August 9 from 6-8 pm and August 10 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from St. Joachim’s Church, 603 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, NB on Thursday, August 11, 2016 at 12:00 pm. Interment will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Diabetes Association, Canadian Cancer Society or St. Joachim’s Building Fund.