James Duncan McRae
December 24, 1932 – June 20, 2026
James Duncan McRae, a man of profound warmth, wisdom, and enduring strength, passed away peacefully at the age of 93.
Born on Christmas Eve, James brought a lifetime of joy and light to everyone who knew him. He walked through his 93 years with a sharp mind, a generous heart, and a quiet dedication to the people and passions he loved.
A life well lived, James was a man of many chapters. Whether through his military service, travelling the world during his long career with BWXT and his hobbies of hunting, bowling and baseball, he left an indelible mark on the world around him. He was known for his quick wit, his storytelling, and his ability to offer steady guidance in times of need.
A devoted family man, he poured his heart into creating a beautiful life of resilience, and integrity.
He is survived by his beloved wife Claudette (Guenard); his children Norman, Gary and Cheryle (Grolway), Cindy and Gord (Parsons); his grandchildren Cameron McRae, Meagan McRae, Jonathan Ingram, Alan Parsons, James Jackman, Amanda McRae, Kaitlynn McRae and his brother William (Bill) McRae. He will also be missed by a number of great-grand children, nieces and nephews along with a large number of extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his son James Gregory McRae, his parents Norman B. McRae and Muriel E. (Simpson), and siblings Wendell McRae (Claire), Elizabeth Reid (Glynn), Norma Kerfoot (Stanley), Audrey Hunter (William), and Myrtle McRae.
"The value of a man is not measured by his wealth, but by his impact on the lives of others."
James lived this truth every single day. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
A celebration of James’s extraordinary life will be held on July 5, 2026 11am – 3pm at Centre Communautaire Francophone de Cambridge. (French Club) 647 Franklin Blvd. Cambridge ON.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in James’s memory to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters to support wildlife preservation or to the Royal Canadian legion in support of our troops. Causes that were near and dear to his heart.
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