James Adrian Mutcheson

Canadian Volunteer Service Medal (CVSM), 1939-1945 War Medal

37th Field Battallion

Royal Canadian Air Force

WW II

James Adrian “Jim” Mutcheson was born 01 November 1925 in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba to Richard and Margaret Mutcheson. There he attended local public schools and later Portage Collegiate Institute. Jim was raised alongside his siblings Richard, Leonard, Irene, Ray, Jack (his twin brother), Audrey, and Joan.

At the age of 18, Jim enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, serving his country from 1943 to 1945 during the Second World War. He attained the rank of Leading Aircraftsman and was awarded the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and the War Medal 1939–1945 in recognition of his service.

Following his military service, Jim began his career with the Manitoba Telephone System in 1945. He dedicated over four decades to this organization before retiring in 1986.

On 05 January 1949, Jim married Sylvia Hartnell in Portage la Prairie. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Morden, Manitoba, where they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Together, they raised eight children: Heather, Michael, Raymond, Laura, Jim Jr., Jack, Joey, and Matt.

Jim’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the Morden community. A decades-long active member and past President of the Royal Canadian Legion, Jim devoted countless hours to supporting veterans and advancing community initiatives. In recognition of his exceptional commitment, he was awarded the Legion’s Meritorious Service Medal by National Command—an honour reflecting a lifetime of dedication. He was also granted Lifetime Membership in acknowledgment of his service to both the Legion and the broader community.

His passion for youth and sport left a lasting impact. Jim was instrumental in developing local recreational facilities, including constructing ball diamonds—one of which was officially opened by Duff Roblin and is known today as Diamond 6. He also built two outdoor skating rinks, one complete with boards, lighting, and warming shack, providing generations of families with opportunities for recreation and community gathering.

In 1964, Jim and Sylvia were honoured as Citizens of the Year in Morden—an achievement he considered one of the pinnacles of his life. His enduring contributions to sport were further recognized through his induction into the Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum and the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.

Jim Mutcheson’s life was defined by service—service to his country, his family, and his community. His leadership, generosity, and tireless work ethic created a legacy that continues to inspire those who knew him and those who benefit from the foundations he helped build.

Leading Aircraftsman James Adrian Mutcheson died 21 June 2017 and is buried at Hillside Cemetery in Morden, Manitoba.

Information supplied by family.