James Drysdale Winchester Falconer

James (Dale) Drysdale Winchester Falconer, born Nov. 2, 1933 in Cambuslang, Scotland, to Duncan MacConnacher Falconer and Isabella McLellan Falconer (nee Winchester), passed away of natural causes on July, 14, 2025 in Toronto, Canada, aged 91.

Predeceased by his devoted wife Claire, James was the loving father of Adrian, Fiona and Dale.

James lost his own father when he was just a boy, but spoke of a storybook childhood growing up in the village of Bothwell.

He had to become the man of the house for his younger sisters, Jean and Wilma, and for his beloved mother, Isabel, as a boy. But he was a born leader, and fulfilled the duty admirably.

As a young man, James joined the RAF and was stationed in Cyprus for peacekeeping in the 1950’s. He won an award for his marksmanship, and headed the armed services entertainment.

After his service, James went to work for Scottish Television. And then a job offer from CFTO TV in Toronto took him to Canada in 1963. There, he met Evelyn, also from Scotland. They married in 1965 and had a child, Adrian, in 1967.

James eventually became an independent producer in film and television, a job that would require him to wear many hats and was well suited to someone who thrived on action and activity.

The marriage didn’t last but friendship did, united for their son. On business in Chicago, he would meet the young and beautiful Claire Greene. They were married there in 1973 and soon started a family in Toronto, Fiona born in 1975, Dale, in 1980.

James and Claire remained devoted to each other and in love for 50 years, until her passing. That was difficult, but he was determined to be positive and to persevere. It was his nature. He was a trooper, and an eternal optimist.

He loved life, embraced every day, and was full of joie de vivre. He loved to laugh, and laughed easily. It was infectious. He was very funny, and witty, and silly, and liked to banter.

He also liked history, poetry, books, the BBC News, marmalade on toast, kippers and a cup of tea, always a cup of tea.

He had an impressive speaking voice and a lovely singing voice, classically handsome features, charm, and a patrician bearing.

He could have been on the stage, but his great role was that of a dedicated family man. He loved his wife and his children dearly, and would tell them often.

Forever young at heart and ambitious, he was not ready to go. But time waits for no man, as he would often say.

The great man is gone, and is deeply missed, but he left a legacy of love for his family and a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Rest in peace, dear father.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at St. Augustine of Canterbury Anglican Church, 1847 Bayview Ave. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 1pm.