“It’s Magic Time” – Jim
On September 20th Jim celebrated his birthday and then departed from us. Due to a long battle with poor health he opted for MAiD. His final birthday was celebrated with eggs benedict, champagne and caviar, as only Jim would have it. He passed surrounded by his loving family Nancy, Angela, Casey and Laura.
Ask anyone and they will tell you what a storyteller he was. Jim loved regaling others with tales of adventures and misadventures alike. Whether it was travelling through Europe, theatre anecdotes or wild nights with excellent company, Jim surely had a story you needed to hear.
From a young age he had a passion for the Theatre and theatrics. It was through theatre in high school that he met his lovely wife Nancy. Although he was involved in theatre as a youth, he never made it his true calling until later in life. Jim volunteered at The Ottawa Little Theatre as a sound designer for many years, and when the time came he took up the mantle as Stage Manager replacing his Uncle Ken. Jim was in many ways inspired by Ken’s joie de vivre and his love of the theatre. As Stage Manager Jim was everyone’s best friend and personal cheerleader; clad in a Hawaiian Shirt and Birkenstocks. Best known for trivia before the shows and devil may care cocktails in the wings afterwards, he was the heart of the theatre.
Jim was the epitome of “live life large”. His message to family and friends was to do the same.
A special thank you to Shelley Rogers, Jim’s primary care nurse not only for being a consummate professional but also for her unfailing compassion.
His wish was for everyone to love theatre. In his memory please feel free to donate to The Ottawa Little Theatre, or for the non-thespians the Rideau River Conservation Foundation.
Digital Guestbook
Pat (Connolly) Eng and Warren Eng
Brian McPhillips
Jim and Nancy raised two of the finest children possible. Jim had the 'broadest shoulders' and was the most pleasant, patient, responsible man I ever knew and Jim Hogan was my friend. I miss him God rest his wonderful soul.
Brian McPhillips
Jim and Nancy Hogan raised two of the finest children into fine individuals who will make their way independently and confidently through life. Jim had the 'broadest shoulders' and Jim was the most patient, charming, astute, and loving person I've ever known. Jim Hogan was my friend and I sorely miss his humor, wit, and friendship.
Gale Labelle
To Nancy and family, I was so saddened to read Jim's Obituary. It really captured his essence. Over the 12 years that I spent at the OLT, my time spent with Jim was a highlight. Always full of fun, he was a bright shining light to be around. You could never have a bad day if Jim was near by. You have my heartfelt sympathy and affection at this sad time.
Kat Kowalik
Saddened by the news of Jim's passing. Grateful to have crossed paths with him, and with Nancy AND their Sunday morning matinee brunches. Such generosity! He will be greatly missed.
Earl Nichol
I have many fond memories of Jim from when I first became friends with Casey in grade 3, throughout middle school and high school, and up until recently when I was invited by Casey to Jim and Nancy’s place for drinks and entertainment (Jim kicked my butt at poker that night!). He was a passionate, kind and caring person. My sincere condolences to Nancy, Casey and Angela. Thinking of you.
Mitzi Hauser
Dearest Nancy, my deepest condolences. Jim was a pillar of the theatre, and so are you.
Thank you, Jim, for all the love and care you showered on the productions and the incredible volunteers at OLT. We remember.
Pat Newell
The memories of the decades we knew each are and will always be a blessing. You will be missed.
David Ritchie
Dear Nancy and family,
As Jim's cousin, I would like you to know that the warmth, humour and caring personality of Jim was there from the very beginning. Mabel & Bob raised an excellent kid. In our childhood years, our families celebrated all the holidays together, Jim & I enjoyed school breaks together, were packed off to the neighbourhood wading pool and sandbox with plastic pails and spoons, explored the dinosaurs at the Museum, and ventured out on our own to fun days at the "Ex". He was a great guy and I am better for knowing him. Much love to you all.
Don Millar
Sept 1 2023... I have only now found out that one of my very first and best friends has made his last curtain call. I have often thought about how to connect. I have reflected on how much I owe him and wanted so much to tell him. From JFK and Cassius Clay before the world so suddenly and forever changed. He introduced me to the love of my life and over the years I have missed him deeply over time - which heals old wounds. Now I can never tell him how much I have always loved him. Love to Nancy and the children who bear that loss as I have had to bear the loss of my love too. I doubt you will ever see this. A few years ago I left a letter for him at OLT but I don't know that he ever received it.
Nancy and family, my deepest condolences for the loss of your husband and father, Jim, my cousin - he was a lovely person and he will be missed. We are thinking of you at this difficult time.