HILL: James (Jim) Thomas of Brandon passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2014, at the Assiniboine Centre after a long, heroic battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Jim was 57 years old when he passed away. He was born March 12, 1957, in Boissevain, MB to Alvin and Dorothy Hill. Jim grew up in Killarney, MB. He loved living and spending time on Killarney Lake; which he called "Golden Pond". Throughout his life, Jim was very active in sports; his passions were football, hockey, tennis, golfing and skiing. Jim had a large network of friends, many of them called him by his nickname "Mountain". Wherever Jim went, he made friends. Jim was a good friend to all; he had a great, big heart. Jim loved to live life to the fullest! After high school, Jim went hitchhiking across Canada and California. Jim worked a variety of jobs, and one of his favorites was working the rigs in Alberta. Jim then decided to attend the Assiniboine College; where he earned certificates in Motor Vehicle Mechanics and Carpentry & Woodworking. Jim's passion for learning and his love of sports led him to obtaining his Bachelor of Education degree in 1988, from the University of Manitoba; his majors being Industrial Arts and History. Upon graduation, Jim began his teaching career in Souris, MB as the Industrial Arts and math teacher as well as being the assistant football coach. Jim was very dedicated to his job. He loved teaching and hanging out with his colleagues and his students. After being together for many years, Jim married Theresa O'Brien, at the chapel in the Peace Gardens in 1989. In 1992, the highlight was the arrival of his son, Luke, who remained Jim's pride and joy for the next 23 years. No one had a greater ability than Luke to brighten Jim's day. Music was another love of Jim's life. Much time was spent dancing, listening and playing music. Jim loved a "jam" session and was instrumental in creating a music festival in Souris called "Homemade Jam" with the slogan "Jammin' the Dis Out of Disability". Jim was very proud to be a member of a band made up of his friends called "The Frets" in which he played the drums. Music continued to be a huge part of his entire life. In 1988, Jim was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and eventually he made his home on the 3rd Floor of the Assiniboine Centre in Brandon. Everyone who knew Jim and everyone who looked after and cared for Jim were inspired by his heroic nature in terms of how he handled his disease. Jim and his family were always very grateful for the compassionate and excellent care that Jim received from everyone during his time on the 3rd Floor. This included many people; notably his doctors, nurses, aides, We Care staff and Craig. Jim's positive and optimistic attitude towards life had a great impact on the people around him and it is for that, which he will always be remembered. He will be missed. We love you Jim. A celebration of Jim's life will take place at Memories Chapel, 330 18th Street North, Brandon, MB, on Friday, July 17, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Evert Busink officiating. A private family interment will be held at Rosewood Memorial Gardens. Donations in memory of Jim may be made to Multiple Sclerosis, Unit 5B-457 9th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 4A9 or to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, 150 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, MB R7A 2B3.