Dear All I am particularly thinking of all the Scholars today and am so grateful to you, as are the children, for your continued support and caring. We miss Abu Jim and Mimi so much, but are forever grateful that they touched our lives so deeply and live on with all of us in spirit. The family is doing well. David has moved back to Montreal from Vancouver. Kathleen is living in Paris, Ontario and teaching high school nearby in Brantford and has just completed her Masters of Education. Melanie is job-hunting in Toronto, having completed her Masters of International Relations and Political Science and after spending five-months travelling and volunteering in India. We were able to move into the new house at the Lake mid-July and are settled enough that we'd love to welcome any of you who are able to come and visit. The same goes for my new place in Montreal - I've found a wonderful duplex that is only two blocks away and have the same telephone number. So remember that there is a guest room waiting for anyone needing a bed in the city. Anyhow, I just wanted to post something on this website today in case any of you visited - to let you know that I am especially thinking of you all today and of how much joy you brought Jim, and Mimi too. Very much love. Nancy

I have been reading through your lovely stories of my father... OUR father. I want to thank you so much for all sending them. Your stories have immortalized what an incredible man he was - one that obviously impacted all of you greatly. I hope that you all got a chance to read my remembrance of him. If not, it thanked all the Sauve Scholars for giving him some of the best years of his life. His job there, and his connection to all of you incredible humans, made him become his best-self. I have never known him to be more peaceful and connected to himself, to his family and to the world. It's funny how long it has taken me to really access this website, and see what was written... the process of dealing with the loss of both Dad and Mimi will probably take our whole lifetimes to piece together, and make peace with. Your stories will continually remind me of his beautiful life, legacy and impact he had. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and sending love to you all, Kathleen

Thinking of Jim, the first image that appears: Jim is either seating in his office or is walking into the Sauvé House kitchen, and tells me about something “unbelievable” or “fabulous” that happened yesterday. Jim had this fantastic capacity to appreciate life, to be happy and thrilled about simple things. Dinner, week-end, a talk at the university, scholars’ trip somewhere, cappuccino from our very popular espresso machine were transforming into exciting fabulous events. And that’s how these memories will stay with me - the way Jim described them. Jim made the Sauvé Scholars experience so special. We can always see how committed and proud of the program, as well as of all of us he was. He passed away so tragically, so suddenly. We have his last happy email about a great canoe trip and different good news. He just started to plan the trips all over scholars’ countries, plan to reform the program, to do so much more in his life. I will always remember him being funny, smiling, happy, and looking forward. Montreal is now part of my life, and memories of Jim will always be part of it. I sincerely hope that Nancy and the family will realize Jim’s (and theirs!) dreams, and visit us in different countries across the world. And the memories will be with all of us. I really miss him. From Masha Maria Lisitsyna (2006-07)

I have many fond memories of Jim from my time as a scholar and after. From my year at Sauvé House, I will remember Jim's contant ribbing about my political inclinations -- a Conservative he was not! -- while at the same time encouraging me on the book I was writing about the Conservative Party during my time as a scholar. Jim even graciously agreed to host the Montreal launch party for the book at the house, for which I am eternally grateful. Other memories of my year at the House include his decidedly negative comments about my friend Conrad Black (he only informed me of the source of his distate later: that he was part of the group of boys at UCC forced to re-write exams the year Conrad stole them from the headmater's office); his (and Nancy's) lecture to me at their cottage about being nice to their friend Stevie Cameron (they knew I liked Brian Mulroney and Stevie had written a nasty tell-all book); and Jim's encouraging me to join Royal Montreal Curling Club (his father had been president of the club) and to go to study law at his alma mater, Laval University, which I did. During the next three years, almost always stopped in to see Jim when I was in Montreal. He always made time for past scholars and was keen to get news. He even kept our mail for us. I was fortunate enough to see Jim one last time Thursday evening at a welcome reception he organized for the new crop of Sauvé scholars, who had just arrived from around the world. He invited alumni who were in the Montreal area. He was very excited about this years' group and the diversity and richness of their backgrounds. He was in fine spirits and mentioned that he was going to the country for the weekend. The second-to-last time I saw him was in early Spring, when I stopped in to say hi during a break in my interviews for an articling position with Montreal law firms. I told him I was looking for a pair of rubber overshoes so my nice new black oxfords wouldn't be so slushy and salty-looking when I got to the firms to present myself. "Actually, I've got a pair right here you can have," he said. "I don't want them anyway, the zipper's broken." I took them, and the zipper wasn't broken. Those shoe covers will have more special meaning now. Jim was one of the most fundamentally decent and kind human beings you could ever meet. His love of and pride in Montreal and Quebec and Canada, his dry sense of humour, his kindness, his compassion for those around him and the joy he took in living life are the things about him I will remember. He was a mentor to many and a friend to all.

The painting There was a painting in Jim’s office given to him by one of the past scholars. That picture made me think a lot while I was a scholar and makes me think about it even more, now that Jim has past away. It shows an old man surrounded by smiling children and house animals who offer him fruit and gifts. It is obvious that they love him very much and it is more obvious that the man/ teacher/ grandfather is delighted with the children and of the way his life turned out to be. We all loved Jim very much and still do. That painting is a perfect metaphor for Jim’s life and achievements. If any of us ever receive just a small percent of the love Jim earned, then we could truly say that our lives had a meaning. Gilli Stern (2006-7)

My wonderful friend Jim, I don't even know how to express my loss or even where to begin. You were more than a friend to me - you were a father. You lways looked out for mw, where I was, what and how I was doing. I'II always remember that big bright smile on your face each time I saw you and your arms wide open ready to give me a huge hug. Each time I stayed away for too long without showing up at the Sauve house or took too long to make a phone call, you always showed concern and bombarded me with messeges until I showed up. I knew I'd never stay out of your reach for too long. If only you knew how that felt to know that there was always someone looking out for me. Whatever problems I had - even personal ones, you were there to listen. Kathleen and I always laugh at the memories of you trying to solve one of my funny n' mischievious troubles with a Calculator. Whenever I think of that and make other funny incidences, that smile of yours and your jokes - I always smile back. My last memories of you are of the fabulous summer weekend we spent together with you,Nancy, Kathy, Phil and Asha at the lake. Thanks for taking us for that ride on the lake. What a weekend we had and I had no idea it would be the last. Jim, I don't know what to say. I don't know what to do either because no matter what, you're forever gone from us and nothing will bring you back. It is a fact that we will no longer be able to have your physical presence with us. But it warms my heart to go over those memeories, especially that they are the only ones am left with now. Jim wherever you are right now. I want to let you know that you'II always be in our hearts and thanks for the beautiful memories. We'II always carry this story in our heart, about you and the difference you made in our lives in accademic circles as well as outside. And I know that there's nothing we could've done to repay you for the person that you were and that peace of mind that you provided to some of us. But am sure the almighty's repaying you. I thank God for having blessed us with you for the time that we were together here on earth. May your beautiful soul rest in peace till we meet. I'II always love you, Readith Mwila Muliyunda.

I periodically think about this e-mail, about Jim, and just as quickly suppress the thought. I really don't have or know anything specific to say. There are so many people in life who pride themselves on their stories and adventures and all the exciting things they do. But that wasn't Jim. He is not a man who stands out in my memory because he did so much, but because he did so little. Do not take this the wrong way. Jim clearly did many important things in his life. But he did them in a such a mild, self-effacing way that really made him the special man that he was. He was surrounded, at the Sauve program, by some very wonderful and very ambitious people. If we had questions about those ambitions there was usually someone around McGill or through other contacts that we sought out. But Jim did something much more important - he was supportive at the same time that he slowed down our ambition, reminded us that humility was a critical value in whatever we were to pursue. He was, in this way, the quintessential leader of that old adage. "To lead the people, stand behind them." Jim was always there leading us with his support, and with his reminder of how wonderful the world could be when we all put our egos aside for just a moment.

The success of the Sauve program really rested on the generosity, good humour and boundless goodwill of both Jim and Nancy. The Wrights opened up their home and hearts to us, making us feel welcome and nurtured during our time in Montreal. Jim was like a dad to everyone on the program - he met our partners, went to our weddings, engaged in lively banter over cups of tea in the Sauve kitchen, taught us to carve pumpkins, kept us fed, introduced us to people who shared our passions, celebrated our successes and gave advice and consolation when we faced difficulties. He had a great sense of humour and a big heart and will be dearly missed always. Malinda Wink, Sauve Scholar 2006-07

In February of this year I received an e-mail from a ‘Jim Wright’. It said: ‘Congratulations! The selection committee of the Sauvé Scholars Program has chosen you as one of its Scholars for 2007-2008.’ I had already almost forgotten about the program, since I had send my application for it months earlier. Six months later I arrived in Montreal. My luggage didn’t. It was somehow left behind in London. It took me over an hour before I could finally walk through the exit, since I had to make sure they would send my luggage to me. I was exhausted after a long, long trip. As soon as I walked out I saw a very tall man, who was holding a Sauve sign. That must be Jim, I thought. And even though I had never seen him before, he immediately gave me a hug and a kiss. Welcome to Canada. That was Jim. The first week we were here Jim seemed to live at the airport. Almost every day he had to go there to pick up one of the scholars, and he did so with much pleasure. He didn’t have to pick us up, but he wanted to. No matter what time of day –or night- the flights arrived. Jim was really looking forward to the year. He was so happy to see all of us. Not only was Jim the director of the program, he was also its heart and soul. In the first week he was there for us all the time. No matter what we asked, he would take care of it. Help out with any questions or problems we had. After the second week we were finally complete. The thirteen of us and Jim drove to a beautiful place in the countryside which was filled with lakes and forests. We went on the yearly canoe trip! It was great. Jim bought us poutine and corn. I hated corn all my life, but this stuff… this was different. It tasted really good, I loved it. At the campfire we talked about the scholarship, made jokes about the fact that we were even getting paid to go on a canoe trip. Jim told us that he wanted to use this year to review the program and to put a lot of stuff on paper, because a lot of information was in his head only. ‘If I walk under a truck, nobody can take over right now’, he joked. After we returned to Montreal Jim left almost immediately, to drop off the sleeping bags he had brought along. I sent him an e-mail, to thank him for the great trip. He replied: ‘It was a great trip thanks to you all’. He couldn’t even just accept my gratitude, he immediately turned it around and thanked US! That too was Jim. Then there was the reception, at the Sauvé house. I thanked Jim again and repeated for like the 5th time how great I think the scholarship is. Jim said: 'It's great. It's absolutely great. And a privilege. After decades of working in business and for NGO's that always, always have to be concerned with getting money, it is absolutely great that I don't have to worry about that now. This is a great way to end my career'. The next day, Friday, we all had to go to the bank to open a Canadian bank account. Because it took a long time we had a schedule for the whole day. Two persons every hour. Jim was in the bank all day, to help with any possible problems that could occur. Like many times before I was surprised about his calm, steady and kind attitude, and about the way he was involved with the program and especially with us. He was just always there for us. Later that day I saw Jim again in the kitchen. He told me he was going to his country house and he wished us a good weekend. Then he left. I miss him so much. Kirsten Verdel

This is me, 4 years ago, 27 years old, 1,52mts, around 50kgs, and as typical as any latin american girl, with dark eyes, skin and hair; my first time leaving the country, with all the illusions that this fact made on me, with lots of expectations and this kind of fear that made you feel strong and afraid at the same time. As soon as I arrived to Montreal, after more than 15 hours I left my Peru, I was hoping someone was holding a little post with my name or the foundation´s one, but no one. The gate looked less crowded than I imagined. I started to walk around with my little “car”, my big suitcases and my “english brain” ready to born. When I was in Lima, I saw the Foundations´ website with our pictures, all the scholar´s ones and the board of the foundation. I kind of recognized Malcolm Moore, is this guy from the picture? But he didn’t look at me (too short for him maybe), I gave up the idea I have a good memory… Nobody looking for me… then I saw again this tall guy (almost 2mts!) close to a man who definitely looked like James Wright. I came in front of him and said: “are you Jim? This is Sandra, from Peru…” He got surprised and open his arms and smile as he was family, the best welcome I could have ever had. He said they were said my flight will arrive in 2 or 3 hours and because of that they weren´t looking for me, and it was so perfect I recognized them… My first thought was: “is everybody around here so tall?” Jim was the first person to bring me the welcome to another world, the first smile I received, and for all the following days I stayed in Montreal, I received the same smile, the same natural way of make you feel at home, familiar and loved. He loved so much all of us, we loved and respected him as a father, our “Abu”. He was really a gentleman, the kindest guy and the perfect person encharged of deal with more than 15 young and foreign people. I have in my heart the best memories in the Sauve House, at Jim´s house in the Lauretians with his beautiful family. He took the guys who couldn´t go home for holidays to his family´s Christmas, the best ones! The first and the only winter Christmas I had, and I can assure you, the warmest one. That was Jim, the same as Nancy and his children, a unique person who enjoyed life so much and share with everybody this love for life and for people. I love you Abu Jim and I will always have you in my mind and in my heart, alive for ever… Muchas gracias querido Jim, siempre te querré!!! “Sandruca” Sandra Lizardo Perú

Jim is by far one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. It was almost a year ago when I first had the pleasure of meeting himat the Sauve house, I had heard a great deal about the leadership program and I thought that I should take a look at it with my own eyes. Jim liked the fact that I came straight to the house without any prior arrangements, he said that it was a good sign of leadership. After sitting with him that day for almost an hour I was convinced that this is something that I would like to be a part of. He was telling many stories regarding past scholars. By the manner in which he was explaining who they are and what they are doing with their lives, I could tell that he both greatly admired his scholars and cared about them. That day I also got to meet some of the scholars and I saw in them how they genuinely cared for and respected Jim. I left the Sauve house that day thinking that I would really like to be part of it this environment. We managed to stay in touch that year and I was grateful for being selected for this year's scholarship. Even though I didn't get to know Jim for as long as many others have, I still managed to get attached to him. He was one of those people that you know you won't meet that often. He always had the best to say about anyone, from a plumber to a doctor without exaggeration. He was proud of the work that I was doing, mainly the filmmaking and often called me a hero. Setting an example for others isn't that easy nowadays but with Jim it came natural. In the first month of the program we, the current scholars, took example of his attitude and became like a family in no time, with Jim being the Godfather. He was ready to talk about anything and we always wanted to hear what he had to say. He effortlessly set the standards for our behavior with one another. I will always remember him and his presence and one day I hope to be as charismatic and honest as he was. In such a short time Jim has managed to leave such an impact on me and on the way I think, especially regarding 'being positive'. My sympathy goes to those who have known him longer than I have, and I am sure there are many. But it's a comforting thought that if he managed to bring me hope, I'm sure he did the same to many others throughout the years. That is asign of a good leader. Sherif Nakhla Sauve Scholar 07-08

Jim was the heart of Sauve House amidst its sterile regulations. It struck me when I first came to Montreal, how rooted he was. So many ofus were like driftwood, tossed around by unrest at home and in our careers, separated from our loved ones, beached finally at a grim grey airport in Montreal, where the first thing we saw was Jim, towering over everyone else and bearing his SAUVE sign, welcoming us to the city and (as we soon realised), to his life. Quiet, strong, with foundations reaching down to the core of the earth, with a history in the city and country, with a family, friends and a home. Everything he owned and loved had a story. For all his enthusiasms and love of life,he was a still centre from which we could get our bearings. My most cherished memory of that year is our trip to the Laurentians,tobaggoning wildly in the evenings, Basu twisting up and falling over inelegantly as he tried to dance a Bollywood number in snowshoes. And Jim himself, puffing and rubbing his hands as he came in from the cold. With his collection of flags from every country, bringing out the right one to hoist on the flagpole by the lake and the open pleasure he took in the variety of his guests. For the scholars he chose the United Nations flag, not just to represent our varied origins, but also reflecting his deep held belief that there was a place we could all come together to talk and be human. When we were leaving Montreal, Henk, Jamlong and I went to find a farewell present for Jim. It really wasn't hard. We found a little oil lamp made of milky glass, most apt for the genie of Sauve House. I imagined then that it would join the array of things that surrounded him in his office or his homes, perhaps to be shown years later to visitors and old stories retold. My last memory of the city is of waving him farewell at the airport, promising to be back to visit him, before disappearing through the gates.

I have never imagined that the uncertainty of moving to another country, of going to live with people that you’ve never met and work on something that is still not defined could be vanished on the first day due to a warm welcoming hug from a stranger! Jim had this amazing power of raising in each person a feeling of protection, warmness, support and confidence since the very beginning. For sure an unforgettable way of dealing with the human nature! The canoe trip gave us the opportunity to get to know him better, and today we are so grateful for those days with him. In many ways Jim was our spiritual father here in Montréal and when he left it created a big vacuum in the house and inside of each of us. But Jim left something very special in side of us, as individuals and as a group – we knew we have to keep going, although it was and still is very hard for us. Jim left us with the importance of living, doing and to be - to be who you are and to try to make the best out of what you do. He will always stay in our heart. Jim is someone you can grow so attached to within days. We are saddened yet privileged to have been able to spend two weeks with Jim in Montreal. He gave his time and energy endlessly and unconditionally to others, especially to the Sauvé Scholars over the past few years. The kindness of his heart and the forgiving nature in the way he embraces people and society are invaluable sources of hope and optimism in life. Anyone would have been blessed to come under his radar. It is the means not the end that define life. A leader is someone, somewhere down the line, as you reflect upon life and you realize what a great influence he was, wherever he is now… Jim was the heart and soul of the Sauvé Scholars program, and he lives on as a true leader in our hearts. Madalena Dias, Liran Gal and Xiaoli Pan Sauvé Scholars 2007-2008

Jim Wright made me want to become a better person. He inspired me to think about what is important in life – like the closeness between people, may they be strangers or family and friends. I always respected him for the changes he made in his own life and for the greater faith in humanity that shined through him. He never became tired of giving his insight and thoughts when we asked him about career opportunities, life in general or even spiritual issues. His interest in all of us as scholars was real, never fake or superficial. His life and actions are a great inspiration. I miss him so much. Love, Amalie

I have been postponing writing this tribute to Jim because it is too hard to say anything final, and so many words seem trite and meaningless in this context. Jim touched anyone and everyone he met. Our group already joked within the first few days of meeting Jim that he described everyone he talked about as 'wonderful'. This reflected Jim's ability to see the best in everyone and bring out those qualities in people he interacted with. For Jim, the measure of peoples' achievements was not only their professional endeavours but also their personal qualities - patience, kindness, generosity, all qualities that Jim exhibited daily. Jim's ability to make us feel welcomed and at home in Sauve House, in Montreal and in Canada made the Sauve experience a warm and supportive environment. My clearest memory of Jim's commitment to going beyond what was expected of him, and supporting the scholars whenever and wherever they needed it, was when I had visa troubles entering the US, a month after the program ended. Jim rang his contacts at embassies, called me day from his holiday with Nancy in Vancouver, and wrote a letter of support for my visa application, as well as driving me to the airport again and offering moral support. He was unquestioningly and unfailingly supportive when I needed it, in every way possible. I will miss him greatly.

Jim was the most interested, interesting and adventurous person on our canoe trip. From sweating it out in the concocted sauna to dishing out wine in steel cups, Jim always made any experience, how ever tiny, much more worthwhile and enjoyable. Among the countless great memories of those 2 days, the one that sticks with me the most is when Jim taught me to cross over in a canoe whilst in the water. The trick is to slide under the co-passengers legs and at the same time stabilize the boat from sinking. The first attempt was a bit rocky and a source of great mirth for on-looking scholars on the shore. The second attempt was even more hilarious, as Jim tried to crawl his 6 foot plus frame under my wobbling legs! By this time a camera had sprung out and pictures of this mini-circus were being quickly captured. We tried it two more times and now I can proudly proclaim knowledge of intra-canoe weight transfer! Thanks for everything Jim, you will be dearly missed!!

It is hard to believe that the energetic, helpful and ever smiling man has passed away. He was our guardian during our stay in Montreal. Whether that is for his lake house, Canoe or ski trip Jim played key role to entertain us. His heart was big like ocean and was deep love for every one. That is why; we all from different cultures and background easily accommodate on his heart. I still remember his effort to put United Nations flag on his lake house during the heavy snow fall, wearing brown jacket and woolen cap. We all were curiously looking his activities from the window. He was heading to mount the flag with big boots on fresh snow, giant, tall and deserved. When he came back after the flag was successfully mounted, he smile and announced “You all are welcome in my house”, as proudly as a mountaineer just return after conquering the Everest. During my stay in Montreal, I found him very enthusiast about other culture. On the ski trip Dawa, Jamlong, Fatima, Naomi and I were playing on snow for late night. During that period I made an Idol of Lord Shiva from the piles of snow. Jim was watching all of our activities from the balcony. Later he called me and asked what I made it. I briefed him about the Lord Shiva’s Idol with his wife, which is literally the mix of male and female sex organ. At first he thought that I was joking. When I told seriously, he was very curious and replied “I should visit Nepal”. “I will be proud to welcome you in Nepal” I replied. Even after the months he was asking me about the logic and philosophy behind that snow idol which I made. I was able to brief my culture on the base of my knowledge but failed to keep my word to welcome him in my country. Jim is still alive in my memory and will forever. May his soul rest in peace. Bashu 2005/06

I am very grieved at the sad demise of Jim. When I heard the horrifying news of his death I was stunned. I couldn’t sleep that night. His thoughts keep on coming in my mind again and again. My mind was not able to accept that Jim had passed away. Jim was a very nice, caring, loving and a humble person. He was of very friendly nature. I remember that when I came to Montreal I was very confused and concerned about my stay at Montreal. Jim came to receive me at the airport. When I saw him for the first time I got relieved from all my worries, confusion and tiredness. He was standing there with a smile on his face. He was a tall man with always a smile on his face. He was a man with fatherly nature. At that time, I never had the feeling that I had met this man for the first time. He seemed acquainted to me. My experience of staying at his country house was a wonderful one. I enjoyed every moment of my stay there. The country house had the home like atmosphere because of the matchless care, affection and hospitality of Jim and Nancy. I enjoyed memorable moments with Jim and Nancy. I remember that I woke up early in the morning on our first day. At that time all the scholars were sleeping. When I came out of my room Jim and Nancy greeted me and invited me for tea. I enjoyed drinking tea with them and we had a long discussion. Mimi joined us and made a wonderful breakfast for us. I really enjoyed eating the delicious breakfast with them that morning. Mimi was a very kind-hearted and a caring person. After the breakfast, Jim took me for shopping, as he had to buy Bar-b-q kit from the market to cook Bar-b-q for scholars. I enjoyed shopping with Jim. Upon return Jim and Nancy cooked Bar-b-q for us by using the new Bar-b-q kit. This shows that Jim had tremendous love with the scholars. He always loved to entertain us. He enjoyed making food especially burgers for the scholars with his own hands. I remember that when it was my last day at Sauve House, he called me in his office and thanked me for actively participating in the program. He gave me a wonderful recommendation letter. He told me that Saman played a key role in my selection for the Sauve Program as she insisted that I am the right person for this program. He said that he is so happy that I was chosen for the program. Then he said that he had a very important assignment for me when I go back to Pakistan. I had started thinking that what would be the task Jim was going to assign to me. He said; “Ali! You have to find another Ali for me for the next year program.” I started laughing. He said, “Ali! I am not joking. I am serious.” My last moments in Montreal were very memorable. Jim told me that he wouldn’t be able to leave me at the airport as he had some important meeting, but he would try his best to reach there for seeing me off. He arranged transport for me to reach the airport. When I was waiting at the airport I thought Jim might not be able to come here. While boarding in, I had feeling that Jim might be waiting for me outside. As I came out, I saw Jim was standing there for me with a huge smile on his face. We both hugged each other. I had never thought that it would be my last meeting with Jim. I cannot forget that memorable moment. Jim was such a great human being with a very kind and caring heart. It is very difficult to find such a great person on earth. I am sure that God will give him an honorable place in Heaven. Jim! we miss you very much. We will never ever forget you. You will always remain in our hearts.

The new scholars had known Jim for only a couple of weeks. And yet his spirit lives on in the house and I think it always will. We speak of Jim daily. Not least because everything around us is so intertwined with him. Every person that comes and goes, every material thing that makes the house such a wonderful place to be and every question or concern that we know he would have dealt with in his caring and efficient way - Everything here is a testament to the community Jim built. We have articles about his life pinned up in the kitchen - and although it is so sad to read them, it is reassuring to feel he is somehow there watching over us. Hearing the stories from past scholars we realise how fortunate we were to spend some time with Jim. He was simply a great man. It is a huge sadness to us all that we were not able to share longer with him. And yet - despite knowing him for such a short time, we also know how Jim would have wanted us to react to this tragedy. He would have told us to pull together; to grow stronger as a group and to persevere. And so this is what we will do: We will make the most of this year and dedicate our work to Jim. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends and hope that they can take some strength from the wonderful thing he has created here. Jon

Random Memories: Dorval airport, coming out late at night after an exhausting journey. Wondering who I’ll see or whether I’ll have to get to Sauvé house on my own. Lots of faces I don’t know, but one head above all the others – our very own BFG (Big Friendly Giant) Jim… Jim and Nancy’s house by the lake, energetic scholars of the first batch having a relaxing weekend, playing drinking games, doing ridiculous stuff in the house and garden and beyond (“I support President Bush and the War on Iraq!!”), beginning to get to know each other and our hosts. One person decides to go out in a kayak on the lake, others feel she may be slightly intoxicated and worry for her safety. Jim goes after her in the motorboat. “Its not fair,” she exclaims. “I want my human rights!!” Jim calmly replies: “This is a communism, you have no human rights.” The kayak is pulled back to shore, along with the indignant kayaker… Jim to us one evening, several weeks into the programme: “You guys need to organise taking the garbage and recycling out every week. I can’t keep coming over at 6am to do that!” We didn’t even know he had been doing it… Language lessons among scholars, yes we learnt a lot from one another!: “How do you say bitch in your language?” “In Arabic its kahba.” Enters Jim. “Ah, here’s Jim, how are you? So good to see you. You are like our father now. Saman, how do you say father in Urdu? “Abu.” “So he is our Abu Jim.” “Hi, Abu Jim!” Abu Jim looks on with a mixture of amusement and confusion. “Are you sure that’s what it means?” “Yes of course, Abu means father.” Jim does not look so sure, but the name sticks… A winter weekend at Abu Jim’s house. Toboganning, sledding, sleigh-riding, skiing, snow-shoeing – in short all imaginable winter activities made available for us to enjoy. Add to that a warm house – no, make that a warm home – with a gorgeous fire in the fireplace, pretty rooms with princess beds, delicious food shared at every meal (remember your napkin-holder!), ghost stories by the fire, playing with bear-dog, snow-woman, filming the scream and Abu Jim’s crucial role in it… The skiing trip – yes, that too is a memory. The billion and one times I fell in 3 days, all the muscles I never knew I had but discovered when they started to ache, the purple bruises, the trauma of losing Sherry and the relief of finding her, the tyranny of Bill (and his food too!), Malcolm prostrating before Abu Jim, the mouse in the lodge (or was it a rat?), most of all Abu Jim’s sincere concern and sympathy which made me want to cry even more than the pain. It was truly an experience that bonded all of us. And Abu Jim led us through that with his gentle care and strong support. Solid as the mountains, deep as the lake, gentle as a deer… Washington trip. Our driver is Pakistani. Abu Jim asks him to identify which scholar is from Pakistan. He can’t really tell, and to confuse him even more, Sandra has learnt and practised: “Mera naam Sandra hai. Maaf karein, sharam aatee hai!” (My name is Sandra. Please excuse me, I'm shy!) Abu Jim sits in the front of the minivan and has a quiet conversation with the driver. When we get off, he gives me a look, tilting his head, a bit disturbed. “I asked our driver what Abu means, I told him that you guys call me Abu, and he started laughing. Be honest, what DOES Abu mean?” in other words: You guys are making a fool of me! “Honestly Abu Jim, it means father. Cross my heart!” Abu Jim has his doubts! And he continued to have doubts for some time… I’m not sure when exactly he was satisfied that it does mean father. Perhaps it was when he saw my film in which a girl child recites the poem “Abu mujh say pyaar naheen kartay.” (My father does not love me.) But it did not matter to us as we had adopted him as our Abu. The name resounded so well and suited him to a tee. And he and Nancy took us crazy young people under their wings as if we were their own children. I have never seen another such example of unconditional, unending, unselfish love – a love that is happy to be able to give and views the ability to give of itself as a wonderful return, not asking for anything more.

Email communications: After leaving Montreal I’d often sign my emails to him: Your humble and obedient daughter, and he always wrote Abu Jim, sometimes making a joke about my self-title! Once I complained to him that potential candidates email me to ask questions about the programme and when I respond to their queries, some of them don’t even say thanks afterwards. I told Abu Jim that those that do not reply don't deserve to be accepted as Sauvé Scholars. Email to Abu Jim dated 16 December 2005: “yet another rude person! what is the world coming to? I seriously do not think highly of someone who cannot respond with a simple 'thank you' and I am sure you will agree, Love from your obedient and very polite daughter, Saman.” Reply from Abu Jim on same date: “Dear obedient and polite daughter As you grow older you will find that the world is full of rude people. Unfortunately the world is not made up of Samans and one or two - no more - Abu Jims.” He was right – there is only one Abu Jim and all his children love him to bits.

I am the last person who replies to you all. Sorry for my late response… Frankly, I am the first person who got the sad news among Sauve family living outside Canada, I think, because I checked the Bahar Akman’s message as soon as he sent.(I was on duty at that time.) My first feeling was that “it must be a mistake.” But the next mail from Bahar made me so frustrated. I had to acknowledge it was true. I couldn’t know how to express my deep sorrow. Like you, I was also shocked by the loss of Jim and Mimi. The accident shouldn’t have happened. I red all your messages and tribute to them, and felt you all showed me what warm friendship is. A web page Saman made is so touching. Thank you, Saman. Some pictures remind me of a pleasant memory in Canada. Jim taught me how to do water skiing and canoeing. Jim and Nancy gave me a special gift.(which was a cassette tape of Canadian typical songs for children) Jim was my mentor. When I worried about a visa and a medical insurance for my wife, he gave me lots of advice. He was a lawyer - had logical, patient, and gentle manner, I remember. Also he was like a kind uncle. Unfortunately, I lost a chance to repay him. Mimi was one of the most beautiful and active woman I have ever seen before. She was so strong that she made her own situation better by herself. She was a play maker in our team. Mimi enjoyed her life in Montreal…and Canada came to be her everlasting second home. I didn’t have much more times to talk to her each other than you had, to my regret. Jim and Mimi were the best part of all of us. In Hyeok

I wish we had the opportunity to pay final respect to our dear Jim, who's kindness and exemplary show of care touched so many hearts. His Obituary amply demonstrates a good man's fuller and richer experience in life. We will always remember him not just for what he achieved, but the good examples he showed in life. we love him and miss him dearly, sincerely, Andrew

To Jim: Abu, our second Dad, Four years ago, we never thought the lake residence will make us cry. The lake residence was the heart of your family. But Abu, that house also kept lots of Sauve scholars’ memories and hearts together. That’s why it’s so hard for us to accept the truth. I still remember all the Sauve scholars spent the most wonderful night in your house. We were sitting by the warm stove, chatting, sharing, touching each other heart and mind. You and Nancy are the most beloved couple I have ever met. We love you and you love us. I believe your generosity and selfless love will shine on our young hearts and lead us go forward. I believe your tender passion will still illuminate Nancy, David, Kathleen, and Melanie. Please hold Mimi’s hand on the road toward heaven. We will miss you day after day. Your daughter, Sherry

Dear All, I got Readith's mail in the noon yesterday, Beijing Time. I was so shocked to say or write down a word in the office. Last night, I cannot sleep when remembering Jim and Mimi, the whole time we spent in Montreal and Sauve House. I could clearly describe the first time meeting with Jim. In the first night I landed in Montreal in 3:30 for delaying flight. There was almost nobody in the waiting hall. A french guy with bad english taught me how to make a phone call with tele card. I calld, it's was a kind female voice, "are you Steve?" It's Nancy and then Jim told me he would pick me up in 20 minutes. When Jim showed up, I forgot how to use safe belt after 26 hours tiresome flight. He laughed:"Does China have cars?" He is the first I met in the big Sauve family. And also, he is the last who sent me back to the airport to fly back to China. He is a patient and kind Abu. When Malcolm called for a BBQ in the third floor terrace, he was just came back to his office and in the next day he said he didn't see anything. Mimi is an optimistic girl although she had lots of things to worry about. She smiled and smiled, laughed and laughed. She could not eat anything except yoghourt for time difference in the first week arrived in Montreal. She'd like to come into my room aside Malcolm's at night to ask for a cigaret, and then we talked for a long night. She loved my massage so much in the kitchen when we all set together with beer at night. I like her long curls while she said she like straight hair... Two weeks ago, I signed in my MSN account and randomly clicked mailbox button. Since I havn't checked my hotmail box for a long time, all the mails was emptied including most Sauve mail. I felt greatly sad for lossing these memories and in the next day I checked Sauve's website.Harry is not listed, but Jim is still there and smiling at me. Is it a sign? I remember the second holidies we spent in the Chalet, said,"In China's english textbooks for middle school student, there is a family, Jim and Nancy, they have a happy life..." I remember several months ago, I met Mim online through MSN and she was very happy with her movie... Like Saman, I pray that they are together now in peace and happiness. Like Sandra, we should contact each other as we were, as a big family, as happy as ever...

Indeed, it's hard being so far away at this time, and knowing that all the people who knew Jim and Mimi, and know what we've lost, are so far away, and one's only contact with them is by email. Jim's openhearted, simple enjoyment of life was one of the things that I found most endearing about him. He was surrounded by objects with stories and loving associations. One of his most telling habits was when he had visitors to the cottage, he would go through his collection of national flags to hoist the appropriate ones for his guests. I always thought that said so much about him and his wholehearted enjoyment of life, people and new experiences. My first memory of Montreal is coming out of the immigration area, tired and stressed after being quizzed by officials, and seeing Jim towering over all the others there, waiting to take me, Amalie and Basu home, his wholehearted welcome warming the grimy airport. It was a welcome to the city, to the programme and also -- as I later learned -- to his life, home and family. He defined Montreal for me. I can't begin to imagine Sauve House without Abbu Jim. Fatima

THE happiest times in my nine months in Montreal were when Jim and Nancy took us up to their house on the lake. In the Sauve house, Jim's office was sparse and empty, but up in the lake house, the signs of his love and enormous heart were scattered everywhere. The photos and memories of his kids, the bits and pieces he and Nancy had brought back from all over the world on their travels together. Everything in the house had a story behind it and was evidence of their amazing shared life. It was up there that we really got to know them both, by eating, drinking, talking and playing around together. Jim loved us like the children we were, romping around in his show-shoes, sliding down the drive in the pitch-black on toboggans, and jumping up and down on his trampoline. When we told him we wanted to make a movie and that we needed to drag his canoe out into the middle of the frozen lake, he watched indulgently on, laughing in the background as we careened through the living room. Jim wasn't even bothered when we sat playing cards and drinking beer like punks on his porch. I sort of remember him playing with us at one point. The memory is hazy since we were out to get drunk. He led an exemplary life. He did not talk much about the fact he was a partner in a major law firm, or that he was on the board of McGill University, or that he was a city councillor, or that he was the head of the public library committee. Instead, with typical Canadian generosity, he let us do all the talking, and opened his heart to our experiences and opinions. Jim was ready for any discussion, and curious to hear all our ideas. When we christened him Abu Jim, he wore the moniker with pride. His patience was legendary. He needed it. When we arrived in Montreal, the house wasn't finished. When we left Montreal, the house wasn't finished. In a year of chaos, as we all struggled to define what the programme was, and what it should be, Jim was a rock. Above all, he was a family man, and he treated the Sauves as his extended family. Without his closeness and guidance, the year would have been a washout. I don't think the scholarship will be able to find anyone who can truly replace him. He touched all of us deeply and permanently. In the 19th century, one writer described North American men like this: "Dullness fled from their presence; they could tell stories, whistle melodies, and sing. Blithe cheerful souls they were, telling racy stories of Western life, chivalrous in the manners and free as the winds." That was Jim, with a big heart and an open mind, and the world is a much worse place without him. malcolm.moore@telegraph.co.uk

My heart is filled with grief as our Great Jim and Loving Mimi have gone forever. I remember every time I came up to Jim's office and asked him for something, he always made me feel the same way a son feels about his dad. I also remember vividly about Mimi, her smile and her witty look. She saved Danka from being hit by a bus in London when we had a mini reunion of Sauve scholars there. I still don't want to believe this happened to our Sauve beloved. Long

Hi guys, Forgive the silence, but I've been overwhelmingly sad. I lived with Jim and Nancy last summer, and spent time with them and Mimi in the Laurentians. They took me in when I had nowhere else to go, and gave me a chance to begin my life anew in a safer place. Jim's legacy lives in all of us. Henk

It is so hard to believe such a wonderful man is no more. It was he who was there for us in Montreal all the way, touching our lives in numerous ways; understanding our differences, personal likes and dislikes. I wouldnt be wrong to say that every one of us were made to feel like his own during program. The relationship we had was not that of a director and scholars but that of a father and children. From that initial canoe trip that introduced us to putin, to walking on the frozen lake in Laurentians and our trips to Washington and Ottawa, Jim played a key role in everything we did as a group, always going that extra mile to make us feel special. He made us appreciate simple things in life and in turn appreciated simple gestures like our walk to his house on his birthday year before last. Jim and I always joked about meeting for "hot-buttered rum" in London after our trip to Laurentians, where I was introduced to the drink. Although we will not be able to do it, the memories of those happy moments will linger on. Jim, thank you for everything you did for us. May your soul rest in peace. Nancy, I hope you will have a speedy recovery. May God bless you! Naomi

Great Love and Sorrow from Cambodia Dear Father Jim, I felt so shock and deeply sad that you left us alone in this world. You are always our great father who full of love and forgiveness that bring solidarity of United Nations of Sauvé. I thought I could meet you in Montreal again, but now my dream would never come true. It is the greatest lost for us. Ana from Cambodia

:(( For some reason, I was missing Montreal and Abu last month badly. I was thinking of time when we all came to Canada for the first time... I sent him an email, just to say that I miss him and those days. I have recieved from Jim email last week and he promised to write everybody long email after cottage weekend... You never know, what happens tomorrow..It is another lesson for all of us to appreciate our beloved people always...It is certainly a huge shock..It just can't fit in my head. He was the best person. Our father in Montreal..He was amazing....I still remember when we went to his place on his birthday morning...I do remember when he met me in Dorval two years ago with a big hug and warm smile. I do remember every single time I had a trouble, he was there for me... I pray for Abu and Mariam...I pray for Nancy's health and patience.. Ameen