It is with great sadness that the family of James Douglas Fotheringham announces his sudden passing on December 22, 2020 at the age of 71 years. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Douglas and Lorena, and his brother, Craig. Jim is survived by his daughters, Tara (Jim) Whittington, Alannah (Brett) Fotheringham, his granddaughter Eloise Whittington, his niece Kathleen (Chris) Tokaruk and his nephew, Jordan Fotheringham, as well as many other relatives and friends.
Jim was born in Dryden in 1949 into a musical family. He pursued studies in music at the University of Brandon and would go on to play guitar and keyboard for several bands in Winnipeg, including Fabulous George and the Zodiacs. He later moved to Calgary and then Toronto to work for RCA Records, where he would become the head of A&R. During his tenure at RCA, Jim signed many artists, including The Tragically Hip and The Parachute Club, among others.
After his time at RCA, Jim transitioned his career into the film and video business. He spent many years as Senior Vice-President of Home Entertainment at Entertainment One Films, a role which would take him to film festivals the world over, including in Cannes, Berlin and Venice. Jim retired from eOne in 2014.
Jim was a loving, generous, and level-headed father. He could always be counted on for good advice, a good laugh, and rousing political debate. Most Sundays he could be found with Tara, Jim and Ella for their weekly dinner. His granddaughter Ella brought him constant joy, although he never liked the grandpa title (he preferred “G-Pa.”)
Jim and Alannah always enjoyed bonding over their many common interests, including their love for foreign film and television. But beyond past-times, he shared with her the principles for a life well-lived: to do what you love, to not be concerned with what others think, and to trust yourself.
Jim will be sorely missed by his family and friends. He will forever be remembered as a man with impeccable style, unparalleled taste, a great sense of humour and lots of love to give.
Memorial services will be deferred until such time that Jim’s family and friends can gather safely. Those who so desire may make memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
