We are sad to let you know of Dr. Jim Thorsteinson’s unexpected death. He was an amazing leader, teacher, mentor, and clinician. He was dedicated to family medicine and a strong and compassionate advocate for his patients. We were honoured to have Jim serve in several roles with the BC College of Family Physicians including Board member, President (1994-1995) and Executive Director (20014-2013). He also served on many national committees and the Board of the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and many colleagues.
OBITUARY – THORSTEINSON, JIM
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing on July 3, 2018 of Dr. Jim (Valdimar James) Thorsteinson who fell gravely ill while on a holiday with his beloved wife Inge. Jim was a devoted husband, father, friend, grandfather and member of the medical community. He is survived by his wife Inge; his children, Kamilla K., Thomas, Jeffrey, Kristjan and Kamilla M.; his grandchild Nikolas; and his brothers Fred and Bill. As a family physician, clinical professor, and mentor to young medical residents, Jim made a significant contribution to the medical profession for over four decades. His passion for Family Medicine, helping others shine and his advocacy for society’s marginalized people are an inspiration. Jim was a quiet, dignified person. He gave without expecting to receive and derived a great deal of pleasure from seeing his children grow into the people they are today. He found meaning through engagement with the world, interaction with family and friends, and through art, travelling, reading, and learning. A memorial service will be held at Boal Chapel in North Vancouver on July 10, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Jim’s honour to the Covenant House Vancouver shelter for at-risk youth.
