James Craig

Jim Craig passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 7, 203 in Barrie, Ontario, and is deeply missed by his family, Gayle (née Bolley), Cameron (Beth), Erin, Maddoc, and Sloane.

 

A native of Palmerston, Ontario, Jim began his broadcasting career as an announcer at CJOY Guelph while still in high-school. He put CKCB Collingwood on the air in 1965, hosted programs at CKSO Sudbury, and CKKW Kitchener, and spent five years as morning host at CHYM. 

 

His television career was launched in 1971, as the original host of "Bowling-for-Dollars" on CKCO-TV. After hosting duties at CKRC Winnipeg and CFRN Edmonton, Jim settled in London, Ontario, taking on hosting, sales, and management roles at CKSL, CJBK, BX-93, CKO, and CFPL-TV – where he hosted the nightly “Watch and Win Movies” programme.

He was also an in-demand voice-over talent, and a pioneer in bringing smooth jazz to Canada, as programmer of the CBC Galaxie smooth jazz channel.

 

Jim began his second career in teaching in 1985 with London's Fanshawe College broadcast program, and taught in the Media & Communications Program at Seneca College at York since 1997, ultimately becoming a permanent Professor of Broadcast Studies, as well as the Radio Program Coordinator.

 

A larger-than-life personality, Jim was generous with his time and knowledge, inspiring his students, friends and family, and all those who had a chance to meet him.

 

He was involved in charity work throughout his life, and was an avid sailor, golfer, wine enthusiast, and sports fan who loved spending time with his grandchildren.