Jan McArthur passed away this morning

[Jim McArthur]

Other than our minister, our UBC mates are the first ones outside the family learning this sad news. I'm sorry if you receive duplicate posts on this: I tried to post earlier but it doesn't seem to have gone.

My wife, our friend, Jan McArthur, passed away at about 12:30 (18:30 UK time) today. I really can't believe that it happened, but it did. :(:mad:

She'd undergone serious surgery for uterine cancer on 11 June. The past few days she'd been extremely tired and short of breath. When she was coming down the steps this morning, she almost passed out. The ambulance took her to the hospital, where I still didn't think that it was going to be anything that serious, till the doctors started saying that they couldn't find a pulse, and that her body temperature was dropping.

She died of a blood clot to her lungs.

Jan was a wonderful woman and the best wife a man could have had. We had nearly 10 happy years together: I only wish it could have been 30 more.

I'm going to be out of action for awhile, so please send the next round of Police scores to PADDY.

MIKEB, I shot 10 meter last night: 36, 36, = 72, 1-handed, Daisy Avanti SSP, Beeman H&N Match pellets.

Take care of yourselves, mates. Enjoy every minute. I wish we could have seen you all again, together, next May: but God, or Fate, or whatever you prefer, had other plans. :(

Jim

[BigDuncs]

So sorry to hear the sad news Jim. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

[sol1821]

just dont know what to say, my thoughts are with you Jim.

[br22]

I don't know what to say. But feel I must say something.

I can't even imagine how you must be feeling.

Sincere condolences

atb

br22

[Jackel]

Sorry to hear that Jim:(:(:(

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, my brothers.

Jim

[BeerJam]

Jim, no words can convey my shock and sorrow at reading this.

Take care, we are thinking of you.

Mark and family

[Ian]

As above - difficult to find words......

I did not have the good fortune to know Jan other than for a quick chat on UBC last month. I liked her style.

God bless.

Ian

[Garry]

I can't believe it, I'm really sorry for you Jim.
You've got plenty of friends on here that will be thinking of you and Jan.

Best wishes
Garry

[jumbuck]

Sorry to hear of your loss my friend, loosing a loved one is never easy i know but time is a healer ;) You never forget just becomes a bit easier :o
Take care.

[mickson]

Deepest deepest sympathy Jim on your sad loss, out thoughts are with you
...mike...

[ikarma70]

So sorry to hear this new Jims,my thoughts are with you at this saddest of times.

Great loss to you and the UBC:(

[greasemonkey]

jim,so sorry,my thoughts are with you,kevin

[throdgrain]

Really sorry to hear that Jim, my wife and me will be thinking of you :(

[Nikkormat]

I'm very sorry to read that, Jim. My thoughts are with you.

Matt

[gordon]

I don`t post a lot on the forum,but i have followed your postings about Jan and can only offer our deep condolences ,our thoughts are with you, Gordon and Jean.

[Chandlers]

I'm welling up here, Jim,
Not really spoken to you much on here, but followed a few of your threads/posts so feel like I know you just a little..... but this post makes me feel I wished I'd taken time out to know you & your dear wife a lot more:(
So sorry to hear this sad,sad news, Jim:(
Thinking of you.
Kind regards.
Dave.

[rifleman56]

sorry to hear this,

[phil384]

Nothing we can say or do will change what's happened but our thoughts are with you.

[magicniner]

Jim,
I'm at a loss for words,
my heart goes out to you,
Nick

[deebee]

My thoughts are with you & your family, Jim.
All the very best
Dave

[Tony.T]

Oh Jim, I am so sorry to hear this news. I have never met you,but have always felt that we have a lot in common, so I am heartbroken for you. Anything we can do to help will be gladly given.

[royalscotsgrays]

so very sorry for the sad news our thoughts are with you. take care jim kind regards mark

[jeff0100]

so sorry to hear this Jim,my thoughts are with you.

[delta1]

I am so sorry to hear this news Jim, I really cannot find the words.

Managed to meet you both very quickly at the UBC, and remember thinking what a wonderful happy couple you both made.

Please accept my deepest condolences, thinking of you and yours at this time.

Richard.

[Shropshire Lad]

so sorry to hear this news, my thoughts are with you.

atvb Paul.

[jay.t]

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.

God bless.

[ELMOR FUDD]

Our thoughts are with you Jim:(

[brian747]

Hi Jim, i am very sorry to hear this sad news pls accept my sympathy
from one airgunner to another,
atvb brian

[Andrew Richards]

So very sorry to hear of your loss Jim, our prayers are with you at this sad time:(

[Paul55]

Oh Jim, where do I start. I cannot begin to understand your loss, I won't pretend to. I had the privilege of "talking" to Jan on here when you had your recent eye problem. I remember fondly the banter over her beating you with your own pistol.

If there is anything, absolutely anything we can do to help you, please don't hesitate to ask.

God Bless you in your darkest hour.

Deepest Sympathy

Paul & Brenda

[Airbrush]

So sorry to read this Jim, RIP Jan.

Atb.

Andy.

[adestu]

hi jim

i dont know you or jan but i feel that heartfelt sympathy is in order as any loss of life of somone close is sad .you have friends here that are here to help you if you should need.
adrian

[Gary C]

Our condolances Jim
Sammie & me

[Stuart_B]

So sorry to hear such news

Deepest sympathy to you and your family

[Zatnikatel]

Jim,

There's very little I can add to that which others have already said, except to say that you have my deepest sympathies.

Although it's perhaps true that many of us on this forum have never met, we are a brotherhood and any one member's loss is, I have no doubt, felt keenly by the others.

I will be thinking of you and your family at this very sad time.

Take care of yourself.

Glyn

[jefL]

Oh Jim I am so sorry.
I was lucky enough to have met Jan and consider my life the richer for having met you both.
We have lost a wife, a friend, a UBC member and a crack shot today. Jan will be sorely missed.
My thoughts are with you Jim.

[Dave D]

Jim,

My deepest sympathy to you and your family,our thoughts and prayers are with you

Dave and family

[Pad. E]

Jim may I send you our deepest condolences to you.

We had the great pleasure meeting you both & our girls took a great fondness to Jan, they still have all the things Jan sent to them.

If there is anything you need, please just ask.

Regards
Paddy, Helen, Sloan, Sinead & Sapphire. :(

[eredel]

Jim...my heart goes out to you!!
I can't imagine how you must be feeling at the tragic loss of your Jan...our thoughts are with you and your family!

Eric.

[BobSki]

Jim, I doubt you'll remember us as there were so many friends at the UBC Meet you attended last year, but Nuala and I met you and Jan and I know both our ladies spent quite a long time sitting outside the caravan chatting.

Nuala said what a lovely lady Jan was and I, for what it's worth, can vouch for that, she was a wonderful, friendly, outgoing gal and a joy to meet. You two were great company and great characters and I know Jan will be sorely missed. Nuala and I are very distressed at the news and are so sad that there is nothing we can do to help. You are a long way from us Jim, but you will NEVER be alone mate as I'm sure all of your friends over here are with you in mind even if we can't be with you in person buddy.

Rest in Peace Jan and know that you were loved by a lot of people.

Take care Jim, keep in touch with your Brit friends mate and don't feel you have to deal with this great and sad loss on your own.

All the best buddy and speak again soon
Bob.
:(

[bighit]

i dont know you jim or your late partner (rip jan), i know how you must feel as ilost my partner 4 years ago in a crash and it made me feel helpless ,but as i did you have good friends on here and in your family, if you need anyone to talk to dont feel ashamed to ask for their time , they are here to help you in this bad times,

im getting married next week and my partner has health issues including cancer 3 times ( all clear now ) , i know how hard it is .

take care jim and look back to the life you both had and save those memories
paul

[foxshooter]

Please accept our condolences, I hope you have some family near by to help you through the times ahead

I am not a religous man by any means but may your God go with you

Mark and Ed

[Gun Collector]

Hello Jim,

It's not often I post on the BBS these days but being a old pistolero, I always like to keep abreast of what you guys have got going here and we have exchanged posts in the past.

I never exchanged posts with Jan but am well aware of the high regard that the folks on here have for you guys. I'm lost for words my friend. I've been down this particular road a few times now but it never gets any easier. Please accept my deepest sympathy on your sad loss. You are in my thoughts. Take some time out and take care.

Geoff

[beagle2]

I'm so sorry for you Jim you said that she had not been well but I was shocked to hear what had happend my thoughts are with you.

[anniegrace1970]

So sorry to hear this sad news Jim.

You are in my prayers,

A



*******************


Other than our minister, our UBC mates are the first ones outside the family learning this sad news. I'm sorry if you receive duplicate posts on this: I tried to post earlier but it doesn't seem to have gone.

My wife, our friend, Jan McArthur, passed away at about 12:30 (18:30 UK time) today. I really can't believe that it happened, but it did. :(:mad:

She'd undergone serious surgery for uterine cancer on 11 June. The past few days she'd been extremely tired and short of breath. When she was coming down the steps this morning, she almost passed out. The ambulance took her to the hospital, where I still didn't think that it was going to be anything that serious, till the doctors started saying that they couldn't find a pulse, and that her body temperature was dropping.

She died of a blood clot to her lungs.

Jan was a wonderful woman and the best wife a man could have had. We had nearly 10 happy years together: I only wish it could have been 30 more.

I'm going to be out of action for awhile, so please send the next round of Police scores to PADDY.

MIKEB, I shot 10 meter last night: 36, 36, = 72, 1-handed, Daisy Avanti SSP, Beeman H&N Match pellets.

Take care of yourselves, mates. Enjoy every minute. I wish we could have seen you all again, together, next May: but God, or Fate, or whatever you prefer, had other plans. :(

Jim

[Minuteman]

I don't post a lot on here but have read your post's over the years and am so sorry to hear your awful news.

My sincere condolences to you.

[dryan]

I'm truly sorry to hear this news Jim. The 2 of you will be in my prayers tonight.

[Thanaton23]

Jim, I'm speechless upon reading this sad news and can't imagine how you must be feeling right now.

Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to meet Jan but it's clear that she was an amazing person and held in high regard by many fellow UBC and BBS members.

Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Hang in there fella!
Vince, Jade, Ruby & Molly.

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, one and all! These are wonderful messages, and I know that Jan would be - no, IS! - delighted and proud of your comments, and your words of encouragement.

As I read through these messages, I note many names I know very well. Some others, I know only slightly, or recall from having corresponded with in the past. Still others are new to me. But we are all part of a great fraternity that knows no national boundaries, and Jan and I are proud to be part of that fraternity. :)

Please pardon my rambling, but it gives me comfort to talk about Jan on a Forum. If you will forgive also what seems like a comical comparison, but one which just popped into my head a few minutes ago: Jan herself commented that I seemed to take comfort (and I did) from talking on an internet forum about the death of my beloved little dog Andy, back on 4 July 2001: just 6 months after Jan and I got married (6 January 2001).

Tomorrow, I will need to commence all the many things that families have to do when a loved one passes on. But I will be checking back from time to time, and keeping everyone updated.

Your friend,

Jim

[Drumming Monkey]

My thoughts are with you and your family Jim

[mark the hat]

sorry to hear your bad news m8 god bless

atb mark

[Powderfinger]

I am sad to hear this news. Jim is a great friend to British shooters and a true gentleman. I send my best wishes.

[Frontbrake]

God Bless .
Alan

[rockdrill]

Jim,

Sincere condolences on your loss.

Dale

[Jim McArthur]

It's 0330 here. I tried to fall asleep a couple hours ago, but just can't: too stressed out, so I'm up doing things like laundry, cleaning out the cat litter, and typing e-messages to you, our friends.

Jim

[BobSki]

Please pardon my rambling, but it gives me comfort to talk about Jan on a Forum.

If you will forgive also what seems like a comical comparison, but one which just popped into my head a few minutes ago: Jan herself commented that I seemed to take comfort (and I did) from talking on an internet forum about the death of my beloved little dog Andy, back on 4 July 2001: just 6 months after Jan and I got married (6 January 2001).

Tomorrow, I will need to commence all the many things that families have to do when a loved one passes on. But I will be checking back from time to time, and keeping everyone updated.

Your friend,

Jim

Hi Jim,
One of the worse things that the can be done is for the person who has lost their loved one to try and avoid talking about them. Another is for the friends and associates of that person to avoid mentioning their name as if the departed friend is someone that should be forgotten and never again mentioned. Jan was/is a lovely lady, it would be a travesty for people to forget that and not to mention it when the occasion arises. As far as taking comfort from talking about Jan is concerned, well buddy, at this particularly difficult time for you, where ever you get comfort from, grab with both hands, I doubt you'll find any of your friends here that would begrudge you that and none of us mind talking with you about Jan. Talking on an internet forum is just the same as talking on the phone buddy, it's the communication that matters, not the media used to communicate.

I hope that in the coming days/weeks you'll be able to draw even just a little strength for the tasks in hand, from the fact that there are those on the other side of the pond wishing we could be closer and more helpful to you right now and thinking of you, hoping and willing for you to get through this with as little pain as possible.

With love Jim
Bob & Nuala

[mike145]

Jim,
So Sorry to hear this news, I had the pleasure of meeting you both.

My thoughts are with you.

Mike.

[cookie]

Oh Jim i am so Sorry, I can't beleive she has gone, i'm lost for words.

I know you have heard and will continue to hear this a lot, she was a real lovely lady, she had a wonderfull sense of humour and the worlds biggest smile. She just seemed to invite you into her heart from the moment you met her.

I know she will be greatly missed by all her friends here on the bbs.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

Again I'm so very sorry for loss my friend.


Jason

[John_R]

Sorry to hear this,

Take Care Jim.

[David TS]

Jim

I'm really sorry to hear this.

I've been there......things will gradually get better, but it will take time.

You hang on in there :)

Best regards

David

[Adam77K]

Jim, I'm knocked sideways by this terrible news. :(

We all thought and hoped Jan was pulling through after the surgery. I feel so privileged that Cheryl and I met Jan and you last year at the meet. Jan was/is a very special person.

I'm not religious myself, although Cheryl is, but either way you're both in our thoughts and prayers.

Hang in there buddy, it will get easier with time.

Adam, Cheryl and Amy

[Ruger_shooter]

My condolences on your sad loss. RIP Jan

[Target Bunny]

Jim
There is no way that words, no matter how expressive or deeply felt, can offer you consolation at this time.
I had no idea that Jan was even ill, never mind how serious it was.

I can not reach out to put an arm round your shoulder, I can not drop round to offer support. If I can help I will but I fear that I am quarter of a world away and no damn use as a friend at this distance.

Jan was special, but you knew that already, and we will miss her.
Tell us the time of the Funeral or Service and I for one will pause and think of you both.

With deepest sympathy and regrets Carol and I offer our condolences.

Jim & Carol Driver

(Target Bunny)

[Phil G]

Dear Jim, like all of us on here, it was with shock and great sadness I read of Jan's passing, no words could express how we feel at your, and our, loss of such a lovely girl.

You're one of the 'good ol' boys' here on the BBS known to all sections for your valuable input to the site. We support you, and care for you as a brother. If we can help you through this sad time in any way, we're here for you.

God bless.

Rest in peace Jan

Phil G



=

[MikeB]

Jim,

I've already posted on the UBC Forum about how numb and shocked Cheryl and I are at this terrible news - you, and Jan, are in our thoughts and prayers.

We spent a wonderful weekend in your company a year ago, and I'm honoured to have met you both and to have spent some time in Jan's presence - for she did have a huge presence and was one of those very rare people who can light up an entire room when she enters.

I'll cherish the memories of that pub meal we had together, and Cheryl and I will raise a glass of Champagne with cranberry juice in her memory - remember that? ;)

I still can't believe that she's gone.

You should by now have a UBC PM with all my contact numbers. I mean it mate, if you EVER want to talk, yell, bawl, scream, sing, get pissed and maudlin or even all of the above, you just pick up the phone.

Take care and be strong, fella.

All my best wishes,

Mike.

p.s. 10m Scores duly noted.

[Eddiekneejerk]

Deepest, sincere sympathies from myself and my family, Jim.

[steve prime]

I think we only met once and it was my pleasure.Really shocked and I wish you all the strength you need Jim at this time and for the future.

Steve P.

[MikeB]

My Dearest Gentleman Jim,

I cannot believe that the Lady Jan has passed.

I had the privilege of meeting truly the most enchanting and captivating of spirits in life. To be around Jan McArthur wasn’t just a privilege it was an honour and your love for one another was abundantly evident – even to those who are oblivious to such things.

The radiance that Mike has already spoken of is so easily, I think, proven. For those who weren’t there at the legendary May 2009 UBC meet, we had a lovely meal in the pub round the corner from the hotel, Mike and I arranged a bottle of Jan’s favourite tipple Champagne and cranberry juice as a toast to your attendance. The Barman was due to go to the USA within a couple of weeks and was completely taken with you, our dynamic duo. I think we all kind of passed the time of day as you do with said barman, but nothing special.

At the following October UBC meet a few of us headed on down to the same pub and unusually these days, the same barman was working. I mentioned to him that we were looking for a bottle of champagne and some cranberry juice as a toast to our dear friends in the USA who couldn’t be with us. His reaction was incredible …….are they here?.......the American couple………..are they here? – He was so gutted when he learnt that you weren’t. :(

I’m rambling, I know, but you’re right Jim, somehow it helps. :confused:

Although it may have been later in life when you met, Mike always says “you wouldn’t have liked me when I was younger and I wouldn’t have appreciated you” I’ve seen photos of him – and he’s right! Good things come to those who wait! However long we are with or exposed to these wonderful people, our lives are enriched and we are better people for knowing them.

Jan is already missed and as each day goes on it will as they say get easier, but with each day we will also remember more and more of her here. She made sure we could never forget her – and we shouldn’t. She is a rare and beautiful creature.

One of my fondest memories is the cheeky spin she put on my description of the adorable little “garter pistol” she kept - I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. ;)

I could witter all night, but I’m sure you, Jim, have other more pressing matters to be getting on with.

Love to all of you, especially my true love, my soul mate, Mike, and dearest of friends Jim and Jan.

Take care, God speed.


Cheryl

Ps my darling Jim, if you need ANYTHING call, you have our numbers.

[Prewar]

Dear Jim, very sorry to hear of your sad loss. Best wishes Scott.

[cookie]

My Dearest Gentleman Jim,

I cannot believe that the Lady Jan has passed.

I had the privilege of meeting truly the most enchanting and captivating of spirits in life. To be around Jan McArthur wasn’t just a privilege it was an honour and your love for one another was abundantly evident – even to those who are oblivious to such things.

The radiance that Mike has already spoken of is so easily, I think, proven. For those who weren’t there at the legendary May 2009 UBC meet, we had a lovely meal in the pub round the corner from the hotel, Mike and I arranged a bottle of Jan’s favourite tipple Champagne and cranberry juice as a toast to your attendance. The Barman was due to go to the USA within a couple of weeks and was completely taken with you, our dynamic duo. I think we all kind of passed the time of day as you do with said barman, but nothing special.

At the following October UBC meet a few of us headed on down to the same pub and unusually these days, the same barman was working. I mentioned to him that we were looking for a bottle of champagne and some cranberry juice as a toast to our dear friends in the USA who couldn’t be with us. His reaction was incredible …….are they here?.......the American couple………..are they here? – He was so gutted when he learnt that you weren’t. :(

I’m rambling, I know, but you’re right Jim, somehow it helps. :confused:

Although it may have been later in life when you met, Mike always says “you wouldn’t have liked me when I was younger and I wouldn’t have appreciated you” I’ve seen photos of him – and he’s right! Good things come to those who wait! However long we are with or exposed to these wonderful people, our lives are enriched and we are better people for knowing them.

Jan is already missed and as each day goes on it will as they say get easier, but with each day we will also remember more and more of her here. She made sure we could never forget her – and we shouldn’t. She is a rare and beautiful creature.

One of my fondest memories is the cheeky spin she put on my description of the adorable little “garter pistol” she kept - I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. ;)

I could witter all night, but I’m sure you, Jim, have other more pressing matters to be getting on with.

Love to all of you, especially my true love, my soul mate, Mike, and dearest of friends Jim and Jan.

Take care, God speed.


Cheryl

Ps my darling Jim, if you need ANYTHING call, you have our numbers.

Beautifully written Cheryl, and now this big southern softie has a tear rolling down his cheek. I was one of the lucky ones to share the meal with Jan and Jim as mentioned above, and couldn't have put into words how special that evening was, so thank you.

[Jim McArthur]

Jim
There is no way that words, no matter how expressive or deeply felt, can offer you consolation at this time.
I had no idea that Jan was even ill, never mind how serious it was.

I can not reach out to put an arm round your shoulder, I can not drop round to offer support. If I can help I will but I fear that I am quarter of a world away and no damn use as a friend at this distance.

Jan was special, but you knew that already, and we will miss her.
Tell us the time of the Funeral or Service and I for one will pause and think of you both.

With deepest sympathy and regrets Carol and I offer our condolences.

Jim & Carol Driver

(Target Bunny)

Jim,

Your kind words, and those of our many other BBS and UBC friends, have given me far more support at this difficult time than any of you may realize. :)

Jan's funeral service will commence at 1100 Louisiana time (1700 UK time) on Thursday, 22 July.

Jim

[harricook]

Hi Jim

I am just reading your sad sad news ........

My thoughts are with you - be strong !

Roy
.

[BeerJam]

I never had the honour of meeting Jan in person, but I was very privileged to have a long webcam chat with her, and Jim, when getting set up for the October UBC meet.

The moment the camera connected, and I saw Jan's beaming smile, I was captivated :)

As we go through life we meet many people. Some of those who we meet touch our lives in a very special way, and you realise that your life is better for having known them.

Jan is one of those very special people :)

Thank you Jan, I am a better person for having known you x.

Cheers all, Mark

[s1255]

I'm so sorry for your loss, you are in my thoughts, I know I'm on the other side of the atlantic, and I only know of you through the forum, but if there's anything I can do to help, please let me know,

Sonny

[hawkeye]

Just found out Jim and I,m really sorry to hear about your loss ,I had two tumours removed in Feb. and March this year and know how traumatic it is ,if you want to talk more you know my email .
Brian

[bassmanrich]

Sorry :(

[Renegade Master]

Jim, so sorry to hear your news. Thinking of you mate.

[BigEars]

Jim I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. My good wishes go with you.

[Bigbill]

I was shocked to read this my thoughts are with you and your family Jim



Bill

[short-carabine]

So sorry to hear of your loss Jim, strength to you.

[fok]

Deepest sympathy Jim..........I wish you strength to see you through your grief.
ATB
Andy

[Wobbly 2]

Sorry Jim to hear of your sad loss.

My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.

[Synthasy2000]

A person only truly dies when there is no one left to remember them.

May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish.

Chris

[Porky]

My sincere condolences Jim.

Keith

[Taylor]

My sympathies, Jim.

[Paul55]

ttt please

[harvey_s]

Jim

Wishing you strength at this sad and difficult time for you.
Words are difficult to find to carry the weight of support from your friends and fellow BBSer's here in the UK...

Kindest wishes
Harvey

[engin]

Jim,

I am speechless, mate.

My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

Look after yourself and don't forget your mates on the BBS are here to support you.

Keep well.


Engin

[Jim McArthur]

Her funeral was attended by enough people to completely fill the church! We had professors and staff from Jan's college, present and former students, lodge brothers of mine, family members, friends, neighbors, members of our old cannon crew, members of our church, members of our gym, former co-workers of mine.

I was stunned at the number of people who cried. I don't mean the obligatory sniffling that a lot of women (and an increasing number of men) engage in as a polite gesture on such occasions: but the number of people, men and women alike, who really broken down sobbing.

She was laid to rest in a crypt in a beautiful indoor mausoleum, so the weather won't be a factor whenever I visit her. :)

Our minister conducted a really beautiful service, and Jan's son (who is an ordained minister) delivered the sermon. The minister also read a Remembrance of Jan that I'd written (but that I knew that I'd be too choked up to read myself): I'm going to post it on here in another message.

For all that, the one incident that I will really treasure the most was a young woman, one of Jan's former students, who came up to speak with me as I was leaving the mausoleum. She told me, in a voice choked with emotion, and with tears streaming down her face, that without my Jan's help, she would have flunked out of college. She couldn't stop crying.

Thank you all for your concern, prayers, message, floral tribute, and kisses. :)

Your UBC friend,

Jim

[delta1]

Moved to a more fitting place........

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Delta. I was thinking about starting a Gone But Not Forgotten Thread for Jan. This saves me the trouble, the Forum the redundancy, and helps permanently preserve her memory, and our show of love for her. :)

Jan's sad but proud husband,

Jim

[loiner1965]

just found out jim......very sorry to hear this mate

[Mr Meteor]

Jim,
I only know your name from the site, but please accept our sincere condolences.
Adrian and Gung.

[greenshoots]

you have my condolences jim

viv

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, mates. :) Jan and I have made many friends from the BBS: some of whom we've been privileged to meet in person during our 2007, 2008, and 2009 trips to England. Others, we know only through the list. But I'm also delighted to hear from anyone of you, whether we've met in person or only on the list.

I'll be sending updates from time to time.

Jim

[baz]

I have only just seen this:o

Sorry to hear of your loss Jim:(

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Baz. :)

Jim

[RURALRIMFIRE]

Oh my God! Jim, please accept my very sincere condolences. I'm stunned.
Be strong.

[Jim McArthur]

Thanks, RR. She passed away six weeks ago today.

Might have been yesterday, for as bad as I still feel about it. :(

Jim

[cleefurd]

Thanks, RR. She passed away six weeks ago today.

Might have been yesterday, for as bad as I still feel about it. :(

Jim

Jim,

Had it not been for your loss, I might not have registered.
I would offer this;

It will always hurt, occasionally it will occur to you that it hurts less somehow, slowly the pain will subside, replaced by the warmth of knowing she was once there... then a bit of pain for a moment as you recall she is not. A cycle which can not be broken, but neither can the eternal joy you brought each other, which can never be taken from either of you.

I lost my wife and unborn daughter in March '04. Would have been my first child, whom we already adored. Still priceless.

At 6 weeks out I feared I might not survive the agony....
...then one day from a song I had never before heard, nor since, flowed these lyrics that gave me hope, which proved prophetic;

"I don't know if I'm better... or just learning to deal with the pain"

The latter seems more likely, representing a facet of how the human spirit may triumph.

I wish you the best, and believe me when I say, "I am praying for your heart to be strong"

Kip

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Kip.

By the time I was halfway through your second paragraph, I said to myself, "this person is speaking from personal experience." Your loss was even deeper than mine: let us pray for one another.

If Jan's death caused you to register here, then this was something good that came of it.

Another good thing, I hope it will be, is the Book Trust I've created in Jan's Memory at the college where she taught. Also, we have an Umarex Boys Club match and trophy, in her honor.

I always like to see something good come of something bad.

It may not eliminate the bad: but at least it means that the bad didn't score a total victory. :)

Jim

[verminhunter]

Only just seen this Jim , sorry to read of your sad lostof your wife .:o

May she rest in peace.

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, VH. :)

Jim

[cleefurd]

....Your loss was even deeper than mine: let us pray for one another. ....

Jim


I too have seen those who's losses far surpass my own, yet they encourage others.

Your loss was just as final, no less so than mine. In an earlier post a gentleman praised your aproach and resolve to reflect here. He is right. And this is a great place to keep yourself distracted too!

Do you have a link to the Umarex cause?

[r_haines666]

So sorry to hear the sad news Jim. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

[r_haines666]

sorry to read about your loss jim

[Jim McArthur]

Do you mean Jan's Memorial shoot, Clee? That's a two-pronged thing. Every July (the anniversary month of her death) we will dedicate the Side shoot to Jan, with a special, appropriate (and humorous!) target.

And, at the two in-person shoots each year at the Greyhound Club in Coventry, there will be a trophy awarded in Jan's honor to the top female shooter.

Jim

[Jim McArthur]

So sorry to hear the sad news Jim. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you.

Jim

[Terry D]

I have no idea how I've missed this thread, but I can only say how it epitomises the heart and soul of this BBS.

Jim, while I know the pain of loss never leaves, I hope the passage of time has taken at least some of the edge off it for you.

Regards

[Jim McArthur]

I have no idea how I've missed this thread, but I can only say how it epitomises the heart and soul of this BBS.

Jim, while I know the pain of loss never leaves, I hope the passage of time has taken at least some of the edge off it for you.

Regards

Terry, let me say: you're right: you're right: and thank you! :)

Jim

[swiftnbold]

Jim,

To echo Terry's comment I completely missed the start of this thread, but i'm just glad that I've caught it to pass on my best wishes to you and your family.

Ron

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Ron! :)

Jim

[inproved]

Hi Jim,

Sorry for your loss


Kind Regard's .....Steve...


Inproved

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Steve! :)

Jim

[Amac]

Dont know you Jim but please accept my sympathy and carry on shooting once you are over this.
Andy

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Andy! And let me tell you, my many good friends here, and my shooting, HAVE helped me get through this. :)

Jim

[Jim McArthur]

. . . that Jan's been gone for six months, as of 18 January.

I guess time flies, whether you're having fun, or not. :(

Jim

[BeerJam]

If it is of any comfort Jim, I still often find myself thinking about you both :)

With fond wishes, Mark

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Mark. I appreciate that, and I know that Jan does, too. :)

Jim

[Jan McArthur]

Jan, speaking through Jim, thanks all of her friends here for their kind thoughts and words expressed in her memory. :)

Jan

[MikeB]

Jan, speaking through Jim, thanks all of her friends here for their kind thoughts and words expressed in her memory. :)

Jan

I got a cold chill when I saw the author of this post.

Jim, you and Jan are in our thoughts daily. There are plenty of times - the most recent being last evening - when Cheryl and I talk about you both and remember your UK visit with fondness.

You are both very special people, and you have a presence which endears others to you. Remember the barman in the pub? He still asks about you every time we walk in.

That's how you touch other people's lives and enrich them beyond measure by having known you, no matter how briefly.

Jan had a wonderful, almost childlike innocence about her, a wide-eyed curiosity about anyone she met and such a zest for life. That's what we'll remember, and we keep her alive in our thoughts.

God Bless you both.

Mike & Cheryl

[Jim McArthur]

Why, thanks to the both of you! :)

I didn't mean to scare anyone! I do keep Jan's Facebook account going: I'm on there more often than I'm on my own Facebook account, though I must admit that I get tired of the general lack of any really meaty discussions on Facebook.

I'm surprised, but delighted, to learn that the barman at the pub still remembers me. :)

I'll be in England in May, but it's part of a whirlwind tour through Wales, the Irish Republic, and hitting Oxford, Stratford, and London. Jan was originally scvheduled to be the college's tour leader. :( I did a lot of soul-searching before I made up my mind that yes, I think I can bear to go without her, despite the memories of her that will overwhelm me while I'm there.

Some day, if I'm able, I'd like to come back to England one last time, making my own schedule, just to see all the many good friends we made there. :)

You have summed Jan up perfectly! :D What it's difficult for a lot of people to understand is that she really WAS exactly that sort of person you saw when you met her. Whether she was teaching a class or talking to a neighbor or alone with me, that enthusiasm and energy was always there. :)

I miss her terribly, and I know that I always will. :(

Your friend always.

Jim

[Gary C]

RIP Jan

All the eloquence has been done Jim, but please accept our seincere condolances.

Sammie & Gary

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Sammie and Gary, for your condolences. And for your eloquence. :)

Jim

[Jim McArthur]

A sad occasion, to be sure. . . yet neither of us will ever forget the kindnesses shown by our many BBS and UBC friends in the wake of this sad occasion. You all have helped me get though this difficult period, and you all have my undying thanks. :)

Jim. And Jan.

[Woodie]

I come on here every 3 months or so, and it sad to read about this. Sorry for your loss.

[MrGreengrass]

I can only write this Haiku for you.

So sad.
Neverending.
Tears fall.
For you.

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, Woodie, and Mr. Greengrass. :)

Jim

[Jim McArthur]

It was the first time I was able to in nearly 3 months, having broken my ankle on 07 December. It sure felt good, being able to resume my old practice. :)

Jim

[Jim McArthur]

. . . it will be two years since my beloved Jan passed into spirit.

The time flies quickly, my darling, but the pain never goes away. :(

I live for the day when we will be together, once again, but in a better and happier world, and forever. :)

Your loving Jimmie

[Ruger_shooter]

Thoughts will be with you tomorrow on the second anniversary of your sad loss. +RIP Jan.

[stagmanv835]

Jim it is amazing how the time flys past, in remembering our loved ones we keep them with us


On a side note i will be passing your way around the 20th september , if there are any small u.k goodies i could bring over drop me a PM

[Jim McArthur]

Thank you, everyone. Today was hard for me, but my airgunning brothers and sisters have helped me get through Jan's passing and the first sad anniversary, and today was no exception.

Stagman, how about an LBR and an English Game Gun! :D But seriously. . . I'll let you know if I think of something.

Ever come across any dirt cheap old Webley pistols?


Jim