Friday, January 5, 2024
To the family of Jim Dean, CIERA. I sailed with Jim onboard the Ottawa 1976 to 1978. Jim was a PO1 at the time and I a SLt on Engineer Officer training. I have to say without a doubt that Jim ranks in the top three Chiefs and POs from whom I learned the most and for whom I had the utmost respect.
I too came from a farm in Ontario (in the Newmarket area) we often chatted about life on the farm as kids. He was technically very strong and could explain complex equipment and how to operate them in a common-sense and methodical way. Many young officers and hands alike enjoyed his friendly way of imparting his skills and knowledge. He was a superior trainer and the finest ship-mate. Over the years I would run into Jim, typically in Ottawa, and we would enjoy reminiscing of our shared experiences at sea or ashore in Halifax. My sincere condolences to the Dean family. Norm Duinker, Commander (retired).
