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 as a young boy, but spoke of a happy childhood growing up in the ancient 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. But he was a born leader, and it was a duty he fulfilled admirably.

As a young man, James joined the RAF and won an award for his marksmanship. Stationed in Cyprus for peacekeeping in the 1950’’s, he was made head of the armed services entertainment and had a stage built there.

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

James eventually became an independent producer in film and television, a role that would require him to wear many hats and was ideal for someone with his work ethic, energy and enthusiasm.

The marriage didn’t last but friendship did, united for their son. James would later meet Claire in Chicago. They were married in 1973 and started a family, Fiona, born in 1975, and son Dale, in 1980.

Charismatic and dynamic, James would be featured in Maclean’s Magazine and produce such films as The Fighting Men, If You Could See What I Hear, and Goofballs. 

James and Claire were together for 50 years, until her passing. But he was determined to be positive and to persevere. It was his nature. He was a trooper, and an eternal optimist.

James loved life, loved to laugh, loved his work, loved history, poetry, and a cup of tea. Always a cup of tea. 

And most of all he loved his family, to whom he was dedicated and did his best to take care of.

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

Rest in peace, dear father.

James is survived by his children, and by his nephews in the United Kingdom.

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.

This is to be followed by a gathering at the Granite Brewery, 245 Eglinton Ave. East, in Toronto, at approximately 3pm. Underground parking is available.