Bateston
Jim Hiltz, age 84, passed away peacefully at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, with his loving family by his side.
Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Theresa (Mullins); sons Paul (Jody) and Jason (Carrie); six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
The six grandchildren, which was his pride and joy who had the pleasure of calling him ‘Poppy’ are James (Tasha), Josh (Allie), Jerritt, Brooke (Ryan), Ellie, and Kurtis. His great-granddaughter, Sadie Lynn, who lovingly called him ‘Poppy Jim’. Exactly how he wanted.
Jim was born in Louisbourg. He was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Katherine (McIntyre), and his sisters Annie, Kathy, and Mary.
A First-Class Carpenter by trade, Jim worked for many years at the Fortress of Louisbourg and later with Veterans Affairs Canada, retiring after thirty-two years of service with the federal government.
He cherished his time at his camp on Belfry Lake—fishing, hunting, and enjoying the company of his boys and his grandchildren.
Jim was a founding member of the Bateston Athletic Club, serving for 56 years. He was also active in the Parish Council, the building committee, and the Cape Breton Woodcrafters Association, where he was a member for over 40 years and served as president. The group, taught by Master Craftsman Leo MacNeil, met regularly on Tuesday nights and passed on traditional woodworking techniques.
In addition to crafting furniture, Jim created beautifully intricate turnings on the lathe, which he proudly sold at craft fairs in Sydney and across mainland Nova Scotia. He also shared his skills with others by teaching night school woodworking classes at the Ashby Complex.
His legacy of craftsmanship, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Visitation and Funeral Mass to celebrate the life of James Hiltz will be held at Immaculate Conception Church on Monday, July 7, 2025. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the Funeral Mass to follow at 2 p.m., with Fr. IK and Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Interment will take place at the parish cemetery. Following the interment, a reception in Jim’s honour will be held at the Bateston Athletic Club, Bateston.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of James may be made to the Immaculate Conception Cemetery fund or The Parkinson Society of Nova Scotia.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
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