James “Jim” Yakubowski
April 22, 1961 – July 24, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Yakubowski on July 24, 2026. Jim passed away peacefully at St. Paul’s Hospital, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.
Jim was predeceased by his mother, Ruth Yakubowski; his in-laws, Gilbert and Doreen Schultz; his sister-in-law, Jean Schultz; and his nephew, Del Schultz. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Janelle Yakubowski; his children, Jared, Jaimen (Christine), and Jasmine (JD)- cherished grandson, Beckett; his father, Ed Yakubowski; his siblings, Donna, Brenda, Bob (Orlanda), and Don (Christine); his sister- and brother-in-law, Sheryl (Dale) and Duane (Darlene); and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was born on April 22, 1961, in Saskatoon to Ruth and Ed Yakubowski. He grew up in Saskatoon and attended Caswell Elementary School before moving with his family to a farm near Dalmeny in 1974. Jim attended Dalmeny High School, where he met the love of his life, Janelle. They were inseparable from that day forward, the truest of high school sweethearts.
Jim and Janelle married in June 1987 and recently celebrated their 39th anniversary. After welcoming their three children: Jared in 1990, Jasmine in 1993, and Jaimen in 1994, they moved to a farm near Dalmeny. There, Jim traded his sports uniforms for grease-stained shirts and embraced farm life. He had a gift for growing herbs and spent countless summer hours cutting hay from the seat of a tractor.
A natural athlete, Jim excelled at every sport he played, though hockey and fastball held a special place in his heart. Through countless teams over the years, his charisma and warm nature drew people in and led to many lifelong friendships. He played ball for the Saskatoon Saints, Conquest, Outlook, and Vonda, among others. He shared his love of sport with his children, coaching hockey for many years and travelling countless miles to support them at hockey, floor hockey, and softball games.
Jim’s leadership and commitment to helping others were evident throughout his working life. As a child, he said he wanted to become a bus or truck driver. He began his career at Dairy Producers, where he worked for 22 years. He then switched careers and joined Saskatoon Transit for 25 years, retiring in April 2026. It was there that he shared his voice, serving as president of the ATU for many years. Jim was never afraid to stand up for what he believed was right.
An avid outdoorsman, Jim loved snowmobiling and fishing, especially at his special place, Delaronde Lake. He and Jared travelled countless miles on their two-up snowmobile, exploring trails and lakes, with a few memorable “incidents” along the way. Jim treasured the fresh air and tranquility of the North, but most of all, he cherished the time spent there with his lifelong friends: Dennis, Kelly, Rod, Pat and many others.
Jim was a friend to many and never hesitated to lend a helping hand, whether standing up against injustice or fixing something that needed attention. A talented musician, he could play by ear without formal lessons. He also loved travelling and discovering new places with his family and close friends, the McVeighs. Together, they enjoyed many beaches, adventures, and memories that will be treasured forever.
Jim lived with kindness, empathy, and quiet strength, touching the lives of everyone around him. His unwavering love and support will remain with us always.
Until we meet again.
A Come & Go Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Brian King Centre, 202 8th Avenue North, Warman, Saskatchewan. A short program will begin at 3:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Jim’s memory be made to Special Olympics Saskatchewan or Cosmo Industries (Saskatoon).
Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.
38 Responses
So sorry to hear. Having retired a year ago I was unaware. Was glad to meet Jim on the route, my last day of work. My heart aches for his family.
My condolences to Jim’s family and friends. He was a very nice man who I had the pleasure to meet several years ago at an ATU Convention. He had a very genuine laugh and was a friend to all! May you test in peace my friend.
I was very proud to work alongside Jim. He was a very compassionate and thoughtful man. It’s so sad he didn’t get to enjoy a longer retirement. But you can be sure, he made an impact. God Bless you, Jim. And your family too.
Jim and I worked together for Saskatoon Transit, but more importantly he became one of my most important Executive’s members when I was the President of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 615. Jim and I spent hours on the phone often late into the night discussing Union issues even though we had to report for work by 5:20 am, much to the chagrin of our wives and families. Jim never gave up on representing ATU members the best way he knew how and I was extremely proud of Jim when he took over the presidency of the Local. My deepest condolences to Janelle and family, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him, he was a special person for sure, your battle is over, but you can rest easy as you did your job well.
Janelle and family I am so deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Sending you my deepest condolences and keeping you in my thoughts.
My deepest condolences to Jim’s family. As a co worker of Jim’s many years ago, he was always positive, helpful and caring. He will be sadly missed.
We are heartbroken in hearing of Jim’s passing. A beautiful soul is gone way too soon. We send our condolences to Janelle and family at this very sad time.
We are incredibly sorry to hear of Jim’s passing … gone too soon 👼 … Janelle, Jared, Jaimen (Christine), and Jasmine (JD) and Beckett our prayers are with you as you travel this journey together … remember “family” is everything.
My sincere condolences to the family. As the former Financial Secretary Treasurer of ATU Local 616 in Windsor Ontario. I retired in March 2022 but had met Jim at conventions. Such a very nice man.
I am saddened by the passing of Jim. A long time friend & someone who was so genuine in everything he did. I will cherish my memories forever ♥️
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Jim was an amazing man and mentor. He always had a big smile and kind words to share. He was always so very kind to Brittany, Cole and myself. Jim left a deep impression on all our hearts. Big hugs to all of you. He will be sadly missed.
Our most sincere condolences to you Janelle and your families and friends. The Yakubowski family is forever changed by the loss of Jim. Just can’t imagine what you all must be going through. Jim was so kindhearted and always smiling. He definitely left his mark here. Our hearts go out to you. God bless you all, big hugs. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💐
Our thoughts are with you all. We are so sorry to hear the news of Jim’s passing. Deepest condolences to all of your family from the Dirkson’s
As a co-worker of Jim at city transit he was a very genuine and caring individual, his step into becoming president of the union local was a perfect fit for him, we are all better for having known him, RIP my brother.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. I started working at SPS when Janelle was on maternity leave with Jared and after that I worked very closely with her. I will always remember the wonderful stories she shared about her family. I met Jim a number of times and knew him to be a kind and gentle person. He was a great husband and father. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.🙏
Janelle, please accept my most sincere condolences to you and your family for this tremendous loss. May Jim’s spirit live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew and loved him.
Deepest sympathy to your family. I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Such a loving compassionate man.
I am so sorry to hear this tragic news of Brother Jim’s passing! I am so glad that I got to know Jim and work with him as Officers with the ATU. Spent many hours discussing how to best represent our members. I find it more difficult the he never had the chance to enjoy retirement. Brother Jim I will deeply miss you and cherish the memories that we made.
My deepest condolences to all his family and friends. RIP Brother Jim
Janelle and family…we are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I remember him from Dalmeny High School. Always kind, friendly and always had a smile for all who knew him. He will be missed. Hugs and love to you and your family.
Janet Bradley (Quiring)
My thoughts and prayers to all the family. Too young, too early.
Janelle & family,
My sincere condolences on Jim’s passing.
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Joanne and I would to express our deepest condolences for the family. Many fond memories of snowmobiling and hockey many years ago.
Janelle, Jared, Jasmine, Jaimen, Ed and families. Filled with sadness by Jim’s passing, a heartfelt loss.
Truly a hard working and caring man always having kind words for everyone. Many happy memories of Jim to do with hockey and fishing.
Will miss being around him while he and Ed put their devotion into baling the acreages around here for us and so many neighbours.
Very saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Had the pleasure of being a neighbour, and having Jim farm our hay land near by. A true gentleman has left us, and may you rest in peace, as you will be remembered as a kind man, who made a wonderful personality, and a great person to be around! May the family be comforted by a life well lived, and the memories left behind. 🙏😞
Our Condolences 💐
Sorry to Hear of Jim’s passing
🫂❤️🙏
Jim was a very nice man and a great Transit brother. He will be missed. My girlfriend took his bus many times and enjoyed the short conversations that they had. Our condolences to his family. R.I.P. Jim. Neil and Marilyn.
There are no words; sometimes only thoughts from the heart. I was shocked and saddened upon hearing the passing of Jim. A more kind, compassionate, caring, generous person, to measure up to, would be hard to find. Jim was honest, as the day was long; hard working; and knowledgeable. He always extended a helping hand to me in maintaining my lawn tractor. He, and his father Ed, harvested my hay crop for twenty years running. The world has lost a wonderful man, much too soon – always giving, never asking anything in return. Sincere condolences to his entire family. Please know that I share in your grief. With a heavy heart …. Jean Kloeble
So sorry to hear this. I was lucky enough to do my Presidents training with Jim in Washington. Truly enjoyed every minute of it. During my term as President of ATU 279 in Ottawa, I saw Jim on many occasions and we would touch base on issues by phone. Truly a great man and friend. Condolences to his family.
Ed, Janelle and Family;
So many fun memories playing ball with The Saints and the meetings after the game. Always good conversations . Jim was always positive and had your back.
Soar high with the angels, Jim. You will be missed.
My memories of Jim go way back to the day’s when he was a pitcher for Caswell School in Fastball, and I was a Catcher for King George School, the Rivalry was intense, we played against them several times in the City Championship finals, both times loosing out, however we did manage to win the Provincial Championship as they got knocked out in the Playoffs. They also had another pitcher and Asian lad I think he’s first name was Mickey if I’m not mistaken, anyway both of them were exceptional ball players, and he was also a very accomplished hockey player in his youth
Then later I would meet Jim once more at Saskatoon Transit, myself as a Driver and Jim as a Driver, then as our Union President. I had many laughs and shared a lot of good reminiscing with Jim about our athletics in our youth. Just such a wonderful person and fantastic Co-Worker. My heart goe’s out to you Janelle and your children, he will be forever missed, but God will have a Special duty for him now!
I am so very sorry to hear this Janelle and family! What a huge loss this is for you. He was such a kind man – he was an awesome coach to our boys and I have such good, fun memories of that time. My heart breaks for all of you xoxo
So sorry to hear of Brother Jim’s passing. Condolences to his family. Hope all your loving memories are a comfort during this difficult time!
I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We both attended Dalmeny school and played hockey and fastball. Later in life our sons played Midget AAA hockey together and I got to visit with Jim during the games. Jim was a great guy. Condolences to Janelle and family.
I worked with Jim for 20 years at transit. He was an amazing individual who was my friend and coworker. I got to really know him when I had some serious meetings to attend to and what a great guy to have by your side. I always truly enjoyed talking with Jim on the road or back at the old “barns”. Rest in peace brother and you will be missed. My condolences to the family.
I’m very sorry to hear about Jim’s passing. He was a very good pitcher and a better teammate. We also crossed paths with our union involvement. Always enjoyed playing, seeing and talking with Jim. He was a great guy. Bob jones conquest capitals
Our condolences to Janelle and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers and we hope that the many wonderful memories you have will help to ease the loss
Andrea & Steve Gerich
I worked with Jim at Transit for several years …. He was a great person and I was honored to have known him. My deepest heartfelt condolences to his family and friends ….. SYOTOS my friend !!
Our deepest condolences Janelle and family, we were so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.