We regret to advise of the death of Master Seaman James Wayne Corbett, CD (Ret'd), unexpectedly at his home in Spryfield NS at age 81 years on 17 June 2024.
Jim was born in Westville NS and spent his formative years there. After completing Grade 8, he began the first of his many life adventures by joining the Bill Lynch shows and touring Atlantic Canada.
Jim's next adventure was his enlisting in the Canadian Armed Forces and starting a 17-year military career. He trained as a Field Engineer and served two tours with 4 Field Squadron in Germany, as well as with 1 Field Squadron in Chilliwack BC and with 22 Field Squadron in Gagetown NB.
Jim was one of our first Combat Divers in the Royal Canadian Engineers. He qualified as a Royal Engineer Advanced Diver at the Royal Engineer Diving Establishment in Keil, Germany and then qualified on Combat Diver Land Force Course 6602. Jim participated in the 1966-68 Army Diver Trial and was a Combat Diver in 3 and 4 Field Squadrons.
In 1973, Jim became the first Combat Diver to remuster to the Clearance Diver trade and join the Royal Canadian Navy. He then served as a Clearance Diver in Fleet Diving Units (Atlantic) and (Pacific) until he retired from the Canadian Forces in 1980.
After he retired from active Military service, Jim trained as a machinist and spent the next 17 years working in Her Majesty's Canadian Dockyard in Halifax. Jim excelled in his field and was recognized for his innovative ideas and creative solutions. During this time, he also began selling Christmas trees. For 20 years, he was well known for his beautiful trees and for going above and beyond for his many repeat customers.
Jim loved the water. He was a decades-long Armdale Yacht Club member, volunteering his time serving on committees and assisting others with their boating needs. Jim owned several powerboats that he meticulously refurbished to their original glory. Once permanently retired, his many boating adventures led him and his wife spending much enjoyed time in Florida and the Carolinas.
Cremation has taken place. A private family burial will take place at a later date. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Armdale Yacht Club on 16 July 2024, starting at 2:00 PM. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.
