Regardless of the occasion or the size of the gathering, Jim Woodward was often the biggest man in the room ó in every sense of the word.
Tall and broad-shouldered, Jim was an imposing presence, and his physical stature was only magnified by his larger-than-life personality. Outgoing, gregarious and blessed with a great sense of humour, Jim would often be the axis around which conversation and attention turned.
Jim was more than comfortable in the spotlight, frequently emceeing community functions, chairing various committees, and serving as a marriage commissioner.
In his career as a municipal administrator, Jim had a unique ability to help elected officials see the ëbigger pictureí; how their decisions on seemingly solitary issues could potentially have greater consequences, both positively and negatively. He spoke frequently during council meetings, with confidence and insight; laying out the options available to council, including his recommendations.
But while he freely provided his input, Jim still left the decisions in the hands of those responsible for making them; a great consensus-builder, Jim would often interject with something like, ìThis is what Iím hearing around the table Öî subtly nudging committee members or councillors to move from debate to decision.
Jim was also big-hearted; a devoted, loving husband and gushingly proud father and grandfather; who would go out of his way to help his friends.
Jimís contributions to the community cannot be overstated. He was a driving force behind the success of the local Ducks Unlimited organization, and a devoted member of the Athabasca Rotary Club. Jim not only accepted and fulfilled his own responsibilities in these organizations; he encouraged, engaged, cajoled and sometimes even demanded that others step up and do their part. Jim was the epitome of the Rotary motto, ëService Above Selfí.
Jimís illness was sudden, cruel and unforgiving, yet he faced it bravely to the end, finding strength in a positive outlook and the support of his family and friends.
Itís fitting that the celebration of Jimís life next Saturday will be held in the Athabasca Regional Multiplex, which many believe wouldnít exist today were it not for Jim. A massive, complicated and, at times, contentious project, Jim was instrumental in navigating hurdles, keeping it on track and moving forward to completion.
Jimís passing last week leaves some big shoes to fill. But another big thing about Jim were his dreams, and his passion and dedication for this community proves that when we set our sights high and work together, this community is capable of very, very big things.
