With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Jim Loat on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at Guelph General Hospital after a short battle with cancer.
Jim was born in Winnipeg, MB spending his childhood and teen years there, most of his time focused on camping, education & food. His love of cooking was developed early, as one of his first jobs was in a restaurant. It quickly became evident that this is where he would spend his career, earning his chef papers at 18yrs old with the Culinary Institute of America. He spent a year at university in Manitoba in the Engineering program before deciding to venture to the University of Guelph where he joined the HAFA program, with a major in Food Science. He went on to become the founding chef of well respected catering companies and restaurants in Guelph, all the time ensuring a sustainable farm to table model to be proud of. He also established the first Slow Food chapter in Guelph, as well as operating a much loved butcher and smoke shop.
Jim was an enthusiastic traveler, although he didn't get to explore as much as he would have liked. His favourite destinations were the Caribbean, camping, and anywhere he could find a hidden gem of a local restaurant. Jim also had a deep love of music and comedy. Canadian bands were among his favourites with The Tragically Hip being at the top of his list. He was beyond excited when he had the opportunity to cook for Gord Downie and the boys when they performed at Guelph Lake Conservation Area in 2006. This would be one of the highest points of his career as his love of food and love of music came together.
Jim was also a devoted pet dad, most recently caring for Keller and Grady, Lucie and Stella. He loved them like children and would've given up anything to keep them happy and safe. They were always by his side, whether in the house, on the trail or relaxing on the front porch. He would often take the dogs to Guelph Lake for a hike while foraging some secret locations finding morel and chanterelle mushrooms that would cost a fortune in stores.
Jim is survived by his wife, Marg, parents, Lynda (Geoff) and David (Marilyn), and his brother Colin. He will be missed by his aunts, uncles and cousins and many friends in the close-knit food community in Guelph, especially the boys in the kitchen at Victoria Park Golf Club. Per Jim's wishes, there won't be a funeral at this time, but a celebration of life for friends and family at a later date. If you wish to remember Jim, donations can be made to The Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada/Hats for Hope, or the Guelph Humane Society.
Donations may be left at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Dublin Chapel 252 Dublin St. N., Guelph or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com