James BAILLIE RCAF

Kyt · Aug 23, 2008

Deaths & Funerals

April 17, 1916 - August 10, 2008 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Baillie. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Mary Baillie, his first wife Theodora (Mike) and sister Janet (Jennie). He leaves to mourn his second wife, Justine, his two daughters Lynn Heppler (Robert) of Saskatoon and Susan Parker (Richard) of Devon AB. As well, he leaves his grandchildren Shelley, Laurie, Trevor, Andrea and Tim. Justine's children Paul Hodson (Hollis) of Victoria and Michele Hodson of Maui, Hawaii and 5 grandchildren were all very special to him as well. He loved and was loved by all his nieces and nephews and was a wonderful friend to all who knew him. Born and raised in Saskatoon, he married Theodora (Mike) Charmbury and worked 35 years for the Department of Veteran's Affairs. He acted as Director for the RCAF Benevolent Fund for many years and as Governor for the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires for 51 years. He was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Jim was a sports and jazz enthusiast and was an avid golfer, curler and runner. After moving to Victoria, he became actively involved with the British Columbia Aviation Museum in Sidney where he volunteered as a tour guide showing to the general public the restored aircraft and various projects being undertaken. He belonged to the Aircrew Association in Victoria and valued his friends in his walking group enjoying many lunchtime meetings with them. He joined the RCAF in February 1941, received his pilot's wings and was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in December 1941. He then served as a flying instructor for two years in Claresholm, AB before being sent overseas in spring 1944. After operational training in November 1944, he joined 426 Squadron with No. 6 Group RAF Bomber Command stationed at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, England. He was later appointed 'A' Flight Commander. He piloted Handley Page Halifax four engine bombers on many night raids over Germany and occupied Europe. After V-E Day, Squadron Leader James Baillie returned to Canada with the Tiger Force and, in September 1945, he returned to civilian life. In 1947, he transferred to the auxiliary component of the RCAF and, in January 1949, was promoted to Wing Commander and appointed Commanding Officer of No. 406 (Auxiliary) Squadron in Saskatoon, an appointment he held until 1952. During this time he was appointed to the position of Aide de Camp to the Governor General of Canada, Field Marshall the Earl Alexander of Tunis. Gone from our sight, but never our memories. Gone from our touch, but never our hearts. Have a safe flight. A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2008 at 1 pm at the First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 4725 Falaise Drive with reception to follow in the Garden Room. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the British Columbia Aviation Museum or a charity of your choice. Jim's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Broadmead Veteran's Home and Victoria General Hospital.
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liverpool annie · Aug 24, 2008

Kyt said: ↑

Deaths & Funerals
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A Group unique in the annals of Bomber Command by virtue of its overseas nationality was No. 6 (Royal Canadian Air Force) Bomber Group - or the Canadian Bomber Group as it was sometimes known - which formed in and operated from Yorkshire and neighbouring territory during the second half of the war. From relatively small beginnings, No. 6 Group grew to 14 heavy bomber squadrons and compiled, in the greatest aerial offensive in history, a battle record second to none.

RAF History - Bomber Command 60th Anniversary

426 Squadron and the Halifax LW682 - Veterans Affairs Canada

Antipodean Andy · Aug 24, 2008

RIP to a good man.

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James BAILLIE RCAF

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