Obituary - Jim Jesse

Sending deepest condolences to the Jesse family and friends. Mr. Jesse was my art teacher in high school. Well, I should say my favorite teacher. Even after I graduated, I would go visit him in his classroom when I was done work. Even years later when I would run into him and Mona, it was like no time had passed. He was such a great man. Kind, funny, patient, friendly and above all a great teacher who made his students love art and excel in art class. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Jesse. He will be missed. Say Hi to Mona for me.

I’m so very sorry to hear of Mr.Jesse's passing. He was my high school art teacher and his impact on my life and the lives of so many others was tremendous. He was the teacher who inspired art in students that weren’t necessarily talented artists(like me) but he was also the best listener, who just quietly supported everything we were going through. Mona would often substitute and I came to love them both!
Several years later, because of my continued contact with Mr. J and the impact he had on me, I asked and he agreed to become a Justice of the Peace for my wedding day and officiate my wedding! My 20th anniversary is in one month.
Although I’ve been in Calgary now for some time, I loved when I ran into him and Mona…talking about their lives, travel and reminiscing about the day he married my husband and I.
Rest easy Mr. J. You were one of a kind.

Mr. Jesse lived in our neighborhood and taught me from grades 10-12. I was a rebellious teen, and he really stepped up for me. A couple of times He even stopped by our house in the mornings and gave me a ride to school- to make sure I’d go. He always saw the best in me- even when I didn’t see it myself. The last time I saw him was a couple of yrs ago in Safeway. And he STILL remembered me. Remembered my parents and asked how they were as well as what I’d been up to. Him and I had an amazing conversation and I was able to tell him the positive impact that he had on my life and that I’ve always been grateful to him. He was an amazing person. I’m heartbroken to see this post. Sending love and condolences to his family and friends and to all the people that read this post whose lives he touched. He was truly an angel that walked among all of us🥲💕

Condolences to Mr. Jesse's family. My husband and I were in his art class together. We would see him often on the streets of Medicine Hat. He would ask if we were still married? Yes is the answer, I think he was proud of the fact we met in his art class. Great teacher, excellent man. Thank you.

Condolences to the family on the passing of such a fine gentleman. He was my art teacher at school and made the classes fun and enjoyable to go to. He will be truly missed!

My deepest condolences to the Jesse family. I was so lucky to have Mr. Jesse as my high school art teacher, and his kind, calm and patient guidance really stuck with me - even to adulthood. Thank you for everything, Mr. Jesse!

I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Like many others, he was my favourite teacher growing up. I was such an awkward young person and Jim was so kind and patient with me, he saw my worth. When I was struggling to find credits to graduate, he had me take advanced art classes which allowed me to accumulate the 10 credits I needed. I likely finished because of him. I live near by and over the years have enjoyed visiting with both Jim and Mona- they attended my first wedding. I looked forward to bumping into them at Safeway and Jim would give me a good ribbing, and I would remind him my team was ahead of Manchester United in the premier league standings. I loved seeing their travel photos, and how excited they were when they were off to see their grandkids. I’m sure so many generations in town have stories of Jim. His legacy will live on.

Thank you to Mr Jesse for all his support and encouragement over the years. His art class was great fun! When I was finishing high school and applying for art college, Jim let me use the art room(and materials) so that I could prepare my portfolio. It was a huge help. I will miss his generosity and spirit. Thank you Mr Jess!

Sincere condolences to Jim's family. He was someone special, and there is no doubt my life is richer for having known Jim, and enjoying 40+ years of going for coffee. My wife Tobi knew him as her art teacher so I've also heard many stories of the passion he brought to that aspect of his life, with his determination to see every student succeed. Many times at our coffee sesssions he'd meet a former student who thanked him for giving them that little push they needed, truly a sign that yes, his legacy will live on.

A life well-lived and many contributions to our future with each young mind Jim had the opportunity to work with. A valued colleague and role model, Jims' easy going & relaxed style put everyone instantly at ease:) !! Jim & Mona shared an excellent taste in vehicles with me, the 70's import that refused to die for (at least 40 years:)!!
Jim & Mona are together again - Thoughts & Prayers are with the family - The Cooper Family: Dale, Lorne & Arlene

My deepest condolences to the family. Wish you all a long life and strength.
I met him when I was in Calgary years ago. He joined us on our hike in Chelsea Mountain. Then we sat together at the Grizzly House over dinner. Told me about his pigeons. When I showed interest he told me he will let me know when he comes to Ontario Pigeon Show. And he did. I met him at the show. He gave me a tour told me about all the different pigeons. I had no idea. Then I mistakenly bid and won a huge bag of pigeon feed at an auction. We had a good laugh. Such good memories. May he Rest In Peace.

So sad to hear of Jim's passing, always enjoyed talking with him. He was a very warm and caring person.

“Jess” was my art teacher at MHHS. He was an amazing teacher who shared his passion for art in a quiet, laid back way that was so effective. He cared about his students and spent time listening and counselling while we painted, sculpted, batiked, carved (and smoked in the alley).
I was so lucky to share a trip to Europe and many galleries with Jess and Mona in 2010 and will forever cherish those memories.
I’m sending my deepest condolences to the family on the passing of your father and grandfather.

After high school my mom bought me a vase… I loved it so much more when she told me Mr. Jesse made it. It is a cherished possession that I have moved with me even out of the country because it reminds me of what an excellent human and teacher Mr. Jesse was. I strive to be like him every day. May his memory inspire everyone who met him for years to come. To all his close friends and family ~ my deepest condolences.

I have very fond memories of Mr. Jesse throughout my high-school art classes. He was the one who encouraged me to pursue my art passions. He marched to the beat of his own drum. Singing in class and telling interesting stories. Condolences to his family and friends!

Mr. Jesse was my teacher from 80, 81 and 82. I thought of him often. He was the best. At 60, I think of his gentle ways. Encouraging by showing. And saying "You girls better not be smoking in that bathroom!" I felt free to be me in his presence. He let us use supplies and hang out there all day...in the back...he was too cool !! Carry on!! Till we meet again.