On October 2, 2021, the Kelowna Curling Club shared the somber news of Jim Ursel’s passing at age 84 after a battle with cancer. For those who followed curling, Ursel wasn’t just a name—he was a titan of the sport, a man whose career spanned decades and whose influence reached far beyond the ice. From his humble beginnings in rural Manitoba to his induction into multiple halls of fame, Jim Ursel’s life was a testament to skill, sportsmanship, and dedication. This blog post dives deep into his remarkable journey, celebrating his achievements and the legacy he leaves behind. Whether you’re a curling enthusiast or simply inspired by stories of greatness, Jim Ursel’s obituary offers a window into a life well-lived.
Jim Ursel Obituary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jim Ursel |
| Born | 1937, Glenella, Manitoba, Canada |
| Died | October 2, 2021, Kelowna, BC (Age 84) |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Occupation | Curler, Coach, Air Canada Employee |
| Major Achievements | 1977 Brier Champion, World Junior Coach |
| Halls of Fame | Manitoba, Quebec, Canadian Curling |
| Family | Sons Bobby and Mike, Daughter Jill |
The Early Years: A Passion for Curling Ignites
Jim Ursel’s story begins in the small town of Glenella, Manitoba, where a modest two-sheet curling club opened its doors when he was just 11 years old. It was here, in the heart of rural Canada, that Ursel first gripped a curling stone and felt the thrill of the ice. By age 15, his family relocated to Winnipeg, and he joined the prestigious Strathcona Curling Club—a move that would shape his destiny. Ursel once likened the experience to attending a “curling college,” surrounded by legends who taught him not just technique but the values of respect and humility on the rink.
In 1954, at the tender age of 17, Ursel claimed his first provincial title as a schoolboy champion. This victory was a spark that ignited a lifelong pursuit of excellence, setting the stage for a career that would see him conquer every level of the sport.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Champion Across Levels
What sets Jim Ursel apart in the annals of curling history is his unparalleled versatility. Over the decades, he won provincial championships at four distinct levels: juniors, men’s, seniors, and masters. This feat alone speaks to his adaptability and enduring love for the game.
In 1962, Ursel led his team to the Manitoba Men’s Championship, earning a spot at the Tim Hortons Brier in Kitchener. The competition was fierce, and his squad finished in a three-way tie for first alongside curling greats Hec Gervais and Ernie Richardson. Though they fell short in the playoff, this moment marked Ursel’s arrival on the national stage.
Montreal Glory: The Pinnacle of a Career
Ursel’s career took a significant turn when his job with Air Canada brought him to Montreal. Between 1974 and 1980, he dominated Quebec’s curling scene, skipping his team to six provincial championships in seven years. The highlight came in 1977, when he won the Brier in front of a roaring hometown crowd. That same year, he led his team to a second-place finish at the world championships—a testament to his skill on the global stage.
His peers recognized his brilliance, naming him the Brier All-Star skip in both 1974 and 1977. In 1977, he also received the Ross Harstone Award for sportsmanship, an honor that reflected his character as much as his talent. For Ursel, curling wasn’t just about winning; it was about playing with grace and integrity.
A Return to Roots and Later Triumphs
After his Montreal chapter, Ursel returned to Winnipeg, where he continued to excel. In 1990 and 1991, he captured two provincial senior titles and back-to-back Canadian championships, proving that age was no barrier to his competitive spirit. Upon retiring to Kelowna, British Columbia, he added a masters provincial title to his resume, showcasing his prowess among players aged 60 and older.
Beyond the Ice: A Coach and Family Man
Jim Ursel’s impact extended beyond his own accomplishments. In 1985, he coached his sons, Bobby and Mike, to a world junior championship in Perth, Scotland—an achievement that filled him with pride. He also guided his daughter, Jill, to a Canadian junior final, cementing his role as a mentor within his family. His coaching prowess wasn’t limited to his children; Ursel led three other Canadian junior teams and two men’s teams at world championships, sharing his wisdom with a new generation of curlers.
A Legacy in Stone: Halls of Fame and Tributes
Ursel’s contributions to curling earned him a place in the Manitoba Curling Hall of Fame, Quebec Curling Hall of Fame, Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Canadian Curling Hall of Fame. These honors reflect not just his victories but the respect he commanded from peers and fans alike.
Jock Tyre, general manager of the Kelowna Curling Club, captured Ursel’s essence perfectly: “His achievements are many, but you couldn’t find a more humble competitor.” Tyre added, “Ursel was a true gentleman on and off the ice and was highly respected and admired by his peers.” These words paint a picture of a man whose legacy transcends trophies—a figure whose sportsmanship and kindness left an indelible mark.
The Final Goodbye: Jim Ursel’s Passing
On October 2, 2021, the curling world lost one of its brightest stars. The Kelowna Curling Club’s announcement of Ursel’s death at 84 due to cancer prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Canada and beyond. His journey—from a small-town boy in Manitoba to a celebrated icon in Kelowna—came to a close, but his story continues to inspire.
Why Jim Ursel’s Obituary Matters Today
In an era where sports often prioritize flash over substance, Jim Ursel’s life reminds us of the power of quiet determination and respect. His ability to excel at every stage of his career, from youth to retirement, offers a blueprint for perseverance. For curling fans, his obituary is a call to honor the sport’s traditions. For everyone else, it’s a lesson in pursuing passion with humility and grace.
FAQ: Jim Ursel Obituary and Legacy
Q: When and how did Jim Ursel die?
A: Jim Ursel passed away on October 2, 2021, at the age of 84, due to cancer, as announced by the Kelowna Curling Club.
Q: What was Jim Ursel’s greatest curling achievement?
A: His 1977 Brier win in Montreal, followed by a second-place finish at the world championships, stands out as his career highlight.
Q: How many provincial championships did Jim Ursel win?
A: Ursel won provincial titles at four levels—juniors, men’s, seniors, and masters—spanning multiple decades and regions.
Q: Did Jim Ursel coach as well as compete?
A: Yes, he coached his sons to a world junior title in 1985, his daughter to a Canadian final, and several other national teams.
Q: Which halls of fame inducted Jim Ursel?
A: He was honored by the Manitoba Curling Hall of Fame, Quebec Curling Hall of Fame, Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, and Canadian Curling Hall of Fame.
Q: What made Jim Ursel stand out in the curling community?
A: Beyond his skill, Ursel was celebrated for his sportsmanship and humility, earning admiration from peers and fans alike.
Conclusion
Jim Ursel’s obituary is more than a record of his passing—it’s a celebration of a life defined by passion, excellence, and integrity. From his first provincial win in 1954 to his final days in Kelowna, Ursel showed that greatness isn’t just about what you achieve, but how you achieve it. His story inspires us to pursue our goals with determination, to treat others with respect, and to leave a legacy that outlasts us. As the curling world mourns his loss, we can honor Jim Ursel by carrying forward the values he embodied—on the ice and in life
