James Joseph Alberding

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts, that the family of James Joseph Alberding announce his passing, on January 6th, 2026. He passed away in Winnipeg at the Health Sciences Centre at the age of 79 years young. 

James was born to Cecilia and Joe Alberding on November 14th, 1946, in Lestock Saskatchewan where he grew up and graduated high school in 1966. 

Less than a year out of high school, with a heart full of pride and a strong love for his countries flag, James became a proud member of the Canadian Air Force in 1967 where he treasured a fulfilling 33-year career working on aircraft for the armed forces, and retired on October 15th, 2000.

Dad had so many talents and positive attributes.

He was the kind of man that would buy two broken snowblowers, take them apart, and build one that worked. Chances are he’d make a profit, and if he did make that profit, chances are we’d catch a glimpse of his infectious smile. 

Very mechanically inclined, Dad enjoyed repairing cars and all kinds of things, but not just for himself, James would always make time for helping others first.

Dad loved seeking out knowledge and loved to share his knowledge with others. He regularly watched documentaries and read National Geographics, so when the Internet happened… Oh boy!  Dad was in his glory!

James was also very creative and together with his wife Iona won many costume contests.  For his daughters he built waterbeds for dolls, sewed blue jeans for Barbies, and made eyeglasses for cabbage patch kids…  and he didn’t only make them for us, he made them for our friends as well.

Our dad‘s creativity didn’t stop at our toys. Bunkbeds, shelves, desks, painted our bikes and so much more were all built with his own two hands.  We always achieved high marks in school, when it came to science projects. Thanks Dad, you get an A+!

Our dad was very generous with his skills, time, assets, and energy.  While at garage sales or second-hand stores, he would pick things up for others either because they needed it, or just because he thought they’d like it.  He’d even mow lawns and shovel driveways for people without being asked.

Dad loved to travel and go camping. Our family went to many places. When mom and dad became empty nesters, the camping, traveling and entertaining did not stop.

My mom, my sister, and I were truly lucky that we had such a wonderful man in our lives.  I know everyone that knew him, felt the same way.

Son, Husband, Dad, Brother, Uncle, Friend, Veteran.  Whoever he was to you, we can all agree on one word to describe James Joseph Alberding… Great.

Dad, you are so loved and so missed. Wishing for one more hug.

James is survived by his loving wife Iona and, his two very proud daughters, Jacquie and Kristine. He is also survived by his two sisters, Lucille and Mary, and his brother-in-law Ralph. He has many nieces and nephews.

James was predeceased by his parents, Cecilia and Joe and his siblings Jerome, John and Linda.

Respecting James’ request, there will not be a funeral, but there will be a celebration of his life on August 30th, 2026 at 1:00 PM at his home in Portage la Prairie Manitoba. Details will be posted at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to Ronald Moffit Memorial Services. 

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