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JIM BIROS Obituary

JIM (JAMES) BIROS Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, September 19, 2014 at the age of 66. Predeceased by his parents Jim and Freda, Nicole's mother Georgette and sister-in- law Barb. He will be sadly missed by his loving children Nicole (Liam), Olivia, Nicholas (Shana) and Elise (Lorenzo). Jim was a proud grandfather of Alexander. He will always be remembered by his brothers Ted (Liz) and Jon (Dana) and sister Kate (Ella). Jim will be held dear in the hearts of his nephews Mark and Jacob and his niece Jill. Jim will be missed by his love, Julia. Jim's life work was advocating for performing artists on a global level. His loss not only affects our family, but also the lives of all musicians and the live arts community. Cremation will take place, followed by a memorial service at a later date. Online condolences at: www.vesciofuneralhome.com

Published by Toronto Star on Sep. 21, 2014.

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Memories and Condolences
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79 Entries

I knew Jim only briefly, through mutual friends at the University of Windsor many years ago, but he made a deep impression. Even though I have lived in Australia for 40 years, I have often thought back to gatherings where Jim's extraordinary warmth, enthusiasm for all things creative, breadth and depth of interests, and generosity of spirit were the light by which we gathered. I will always remember the excitement with which he played a new album for us in 1970, predicting solemnly that 'this artist is going to be around for a long time'. The album was 'Your Song', the artist Elton John! I was saddened to learn,nine years late, that Jim passed away so young, but I was also consoled (and not surprised) to learn that he had led a rich, full and generous life. He was unforgettable.

Diane Villani (nee Dalgleish)

Other

January 10, 2023

I just heard the news. I am so deeply saddened for all of Jim's loved ones. He was one of the good guys

Andrea Nevitt

October 6, 2014

It was apparent way back in the basement and living room of the Biros family home in Dunnville that Jim's life would revolve around his love for music and the arts. He was fortunate that he was able to fill his life with that love and in doing so touch so many with his kind heart, gentle soul and sense of humour.
Our hearts go out to his very close family at this difficult time.

Love Brenda & Paul Draper

October 1, 2014

I first met Jim in London some years ago - he wanted to talk about musical theatre in London with me, he was just such an enthusiastic and committed man, it soon transpired that similar problems existed and we forged close links between the British MU and the New York and Toronto Locals, meeting either side of the pond to share issues and discuss outcomes and solutions. Jim's knowledge and understanding of musicians rights was second to none. We will miss him greatly, he was a great companion. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Dave Webster British Musicians' Union.

Dave Webster

September 25, 2014

I am so saddened by the news. Jim was a wonderful advocate for musicians in Toronto. His colleagues in the labour movement will miss his clear, deep voice reminding us all that live music improves any event, especially Labour Day.
John Cartwright
President,
Toronto & York Region Labour Council

John Cartwright

September 25, 2014

I just found out about Jim's death. He was a wonderful man-always a great advocate for the Artists he worked with. My thoughts are with you, his family, and Jim's many friends and colleagues who will miss him immeasurably.

Sharon Poitras

September 24, 2014

I was about to reach out to Jim for some advice regarding musician contracting when I learned of his passing. Working with him in recent years, I came to admire him as a sincere and thoughtful person and a highly respected advocate for artists. My thoughts go out to the family during this difficult time.

Mark Micklethwaite

September 24, 2014

I always looked forward to Jim's visits backstage both at the TSO and COC. He was always so positive and interested in each person not just as musicians but as people. He will be greatly missed by all of us. love Joan Watson and Scott Irvine

September 24, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss. Speaking as Toronto musicians, we've lost a great advocate and a kind and fair man--a true friend. He is absolutely irreplaceable. Wishing all his family strength in this difficult time.

Wendy and Lenny Solomon

September 24, 2014

It was a pleasure to get to know Jim at the various AFM Negotiations we attended. A brighter, warmer person could not be found. I will miss him. My sincerest condolences to his family.

Dean rolando

September 24, 2014

Very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a great guy and helpful to me and to lots of other musicians

Aaron Davis

September 24, 2014

My love, support, and comfort to Julia and family. Jim was a remarkable person, filled with generosity and a call to service during his entire life; he was an advocate for artists; he radiated joy and love. As a student at the U of W he covered all areas: acting, stage management are only a couple of examples. He was respected and loved by his classmates and profs; his devotion to the arts and to the welfare of people are themes threaded through his entire life. When I think of Jim, I recall his great big smile.
Comfort and love, Diana

Diana Mady Kelly

September 23, 2014

Our condolences...God bless the Biros family.

David Liske & Kiely Perez

September 23, 2014

Musicians in Canada have lost a great advocate and friend. Jim will be very much missed by all of us.

Our sincere condolences to Jim's family.

Len and Ellen Lytwyn

Ellen Lytwyn

September 23, 2014

So sorry to hear of your loss. Jim was a lovely man and I have very fond memories of being directed by him in the U of Windsor production of The Dandy Lion. RIP Jim.

September 23, 2014

Jim served on the board of PAL Canada as a devoted member, and as the representative of one of PAL Canada's founding members, the Canadian Federation of Musicians. His tireless advocacy and contribution to the arts in Canada, and his unrelenting support for PAL Canada, will be forever cherished and missed. Thoughts and prayers from all members of PAL Canada community, and from the Board of Directors of PAL Canada go out to Jim's family at this time.

Adrian Luces

September 23, 2014

I was very sorry to hear of Jim's untimely passing. I enjoyed our many conversations. Whether he was helping me resolve an issue, or whether we were just chatting about the music business in general, Jim was a great guy to talk to. A truly caring individual and great at his job. He'll be missed by many.

John Hughes

September 23, 2014

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a gentle man; I will never forget the joy he brought as a director to our lovely production of The Dandy Lion at SODA at the University of Windsor, so many years ago now. Blessings to his loved ones.

anna migliarisi

September 23, 2014

ACTRA Toronto wishes to express its condolences on behalf of all our members on the passing of Jim. His efforts in support of the Arts and in the Labour movement have left a lasting legacy that will encourage the next generation. He will be missed. David Sparrow, President of ACTRA Toronto

David Sparrow

September 23, 2014

Jim gave me a great deal personal and professional support and was a true friend of all musicians -- a thoughtful, warm and caring person. Thank you, Jim.

Susan Lipchak

September 23, 2014

Jim was an engaging and talented leader who followed a righteous path. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends...

Abbey Sholzberg

September 23, 2014

Jim was such a dear man. A wonderful advocate for musicians everywhere. Always ready to listen and provide mentorship. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.

Jeannie Wyse

September 23, 2014

The music world has lost a person that always had their backs-protecting their rights & benefits. He was one of the "good guys". Condolences to his family & many friends.

Doriann Forrester

September 23, 2014

I am sad to see that Jim as died, far too early. I first worked with Jim when he was a Representative for the Musicians Union on the 'Arts and Roundtable" at the Ontario Federation of Labour . One of the projects we took on was the achievement of Status of the Artist legislation. Jim worked on the Committee and took a lead role in the education of other unions on what Status of the Artist legislation could achieve. While we did not actually get the legislation, Jim advanced the concerns of Musicians; spread knowledge of the issues faced by our Musicians and ensured that all Unions used Union Musicians in the same way they used other unionized services. He was fun, outgoing, articulate, dedicated, smart and a special advocate. He will be missed by the labour movement and the movement is stronger because Jim was a part of it. Sincerely, Irene Harris
Irene

September 23, 2014

Our condolences go to Jim's family.

He was truly a lovely man who worked tirelessly on behalf of musicians everywhere...

Your friends and colleagues from the Musicians' Pension Fund of Canada will miss you.

Ellen Versteeg-Lytwyn

September 23, 2014

Jim was a tireless advocate for musicians and for all performing artists. Bright , energetic and totally committed to ensure that artists can live with respect and dignity. My condolences to his family.

Michael Namer

September 23, 2014

Jim Biros- What an enthusiastic, knowledgable and helpful advocate to so many artists!! So many of us have benefited tremendously from Jim's hard work and advice. Over the years it's been such a pleasure to have many wide ranging (and entertaining!) discussions with Jim about anything to do with the arts . My condolences to the Biros family.

Melody McShane

September 23, 2014

Jim was such a great warm and giving guy, so knowledgable, and patient in long negotiations. Very sad to hear he's gone, will miss him!

Peter Stoll

September 22, 2014

One of the best advocates for musicians everywhere. You will be sorely missed, Jim. Condolences to the Biros family, to the staff & members of the Toronto Musicians Association, and to everyone who knew Jim and benefitted form his tireless work.

Kevin Barrett

September 22, 2014

We have lost a deeply loved friend and mentor ,who was unfailingly admired and respected by all .
Ray Koskie

September 22, 2014

Jim was single-handedly responsible for fostering a much closer relationship in recent years between Toronto AFM, Broadway AFM and the London region of the British Musicians' Union, which has been for the great benefit of (especially) theatre musicians on Broadway and in the West End of London.
We met pretty much each year either side of the Atlantic, and Jim was the most amazing company. Boundless enthusiasm, a passion for the rights of the performing artist, unshakeable good humour, and a most gracious human being.
I know the London officers are distraught to hear of Jim's passing and join me in sending our sincere condolences to Jim's family and friends.
It was an honour to have known him.

Rick Finlay

September 22, 2014

All musicians have lost a friend.

Alan Laing

September 22, 2014

Deepest sympathy to the Biros family. Jim's contribution to the good and general welfare of all musicians will be missed. His is a legacy that will live on in the hearts and minds of musicians and all who enjoy live music. On behalf of the membership of AFM Local 446 (Regina), thanks, Jim. Rest in peace.

Brian Sklar

September 22, 2014

Jim was always extremely helpful whenever I called with any questions. He was such a warm and engaging person. I never met him personally but I just always expected him to be there for us!

Gretchen Anner

September 22, 2014

A true friend of musicians, a great guy, a conciliator. Toronto, Canada and the music world have lost one of the good ones.

Ron Davis

September 22, 2014

So very sad to hear this news. My condolences to his family and loved ones. A very lovely, generous man. He offered endless, huge, active support for the arts. A dear fried to artists, performers and musicians.

Liza Balkan

September 22, 2014

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was a wonderful man in so many ways and will be sorely missed. Condolences to the Biros family
Marilyn Dallman, Stratford

September 22, 2014

R.I.P Jim Biros. Thank you for your dedicated service to musicians everywhere, for being so generous with your time, for your contageous energy and spirit, and for truly caring about others. You will be missed.

Kathy Thompson

September 22, 2014

He was a great gentleman and will be missed.

Kerry Stratton

September 22, 2014

I personally will miss Jim very much. He always had time to say hello in his busy schedule. He was a warm, trusting beautiful man.

Patty Gail

September 22, 2014

A great friend and strong advocate for live music and the performing arts, Jim's humanity, good humour and wisdom will be missed.

David Briskin

September 22, 2014

It is with our deepest sympathy that we hear of the passing of our union brother Jim Biros,rest in peace my CKLW friend.

George Troia

September 22, 2014

Jim, your warmth and humanity was always evident in both your professional and personal life. I feel lucky to have had the privilege to know you. Rest in peace.

Mark Duggan

September 22, 2014

You always had time for me and helped me so much with booking shows and concerts. I don't know if there will ever be one as knowledgeable as you were. I didn't know that you were that ill otherwise I would definitely have visited. Have a great life in heaven Jim. Lorne

Lorne Grossman

September 22, 2014

Jim was a kind soul who genuinely cared for those with whom he worked. He will be greatly missed.

Brian O'Kane

September 22, 2014

A great generous spirit who leaves a score of finely etched memories in my heart. Rest lightly, rest well sir.

Kevin McGugan

September 22, 2014

One of the good guys. Jim will be sorely missed by Toronto's actors and musicians.

Brigham Phillips

September 22, 2014

You will be greatly missed by all the musicians in Toronto. Thank you for all the work you had done for us....and my deepest sympathy to the family...

Etsuko Kimura

September 22, 2014

I found out about the news of Jim's passing during the first act of WICKED while I was playing the piano book in the pit, just before a song called "Something Bad." Indeed this is very sad news - Jim was my friend and I had known him for so many years, and he was a tireless representative for all Toronto Musician Association members. Jim was a very special man and he will be missed. My sympathies to his family as they all go through this difficult period.

Steve Hunter

September 22, 2014

Jim was a great guy and a terrific advocate for live performers. He also was a genuine audience member who loved all kinds of performance and the entire performing community. He was a good friend I hadn't seen enough of lately and I will miss his chronic cheerful nature and wise counsel. I am shocked and saddened and wish his family and "close ones" my condolences on their loss.

David W. Thompson

September 22, 2014

I am sad to learn of Jim's passing.
Such a great advocate of the working musician. Such a good and caring member of our community.
Thank you for everything, Jim

September 22, 2014

Jim was such an incredible advocate for the musicians of Toronto. His tireless crusading on our behalf will never be forgotten, along with his warm, lighthearted presence backstage during intermissions, and after performance at the opera and ballet.
We will all miss you good friend.
Angela

September 22, 2014

My sympathies to the Biros family. I spent many hours in meetings, on phone calls and in negotiations with Jim. His energy, passion and support will be missed.
Sandra Gavinchuk

September 22, 2014

He showed up at every openning night of all the shows I did. His smile and encouragement will always be in my best of memories. I will miss him greatly, and will pray for his ever-loving family at this time.

Xiao Grabke

September 22, 2014

"The MacDonald family wish to express their deepest sympathies to the Biros and Balaisis families. Know that we are thinking of you in a very special way. Jim's infectious smile and his warm and welcoming ways during family gatherings and celebrations will always be treasured. We will certainly miss his presence."

The MacDonalds

September 22, 2014

Jim was a lovely and special man. He was a true friend of the arts and performers. It was a pleasure to have crossed his path. Most sincere condolences to all his family and friends.

Phil Ayling

September 22, 2014

I knew Jim from his days at Equity. He was a lovely, gentle and bright man. My brother knew him from his work with the musicians union. When my brother was sick, Jim was also very kind to him. I am sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He will be missed.
Kiri-Lyn Muir

Kiri-Lyn Muir

September 21, 2014

Our sympathies go out to Jim's family. I worked with Jim as a member of the players committee at the Stratford Festival and was inspired by his enthusiasm for the Theatre and for his part in it. We all knew him to be so kind and patient, and excellent at negotiating for us. He will be missed.

Dale Anne Brendon and Don Sweete

September 21, 2014

Jim was a wonderful colleague in our work on the Board at Work in Culture. We could always count on Jim for his wit, his passion and energy in improving the opportunities for cultural workers. He will be missed.

Micheline McKay

September 21, 2014

Very, very sorry to hear of Jim's passing, he was a great friend to all of us working in the theatres and concert halls in Toronto. We proudly marched with Jim in many Labour Day parades,we will truly miss him.
Jim Brett

IATSE Local 58

September 21, 2014

In memory of a truly wonderful person.
Jim was a gentleman. He was a great friend to all of us performing musicians. His efforts to improve our lives and working conditions will live on forever. God bless Jim Biros and may he rest in peace. I will miss him greatly.

Barton Woomert

September 21, 2014

Jim will be greatly missed by so many, I always enjoyed his conversations. Our deepest condolences to his family from Stratford Musicians Association.

Stephanie Martin

September 21, 2014

My condolences to the family. Jim was a very fine man.

Donald Fraser

September 21, 2014

Jim was a true gentleman and a great friend of the Toronto Symphony musicians. I will miss his kindness as well as his passion for music and musicians' rights.

September 21, 2014

I first met Jim during negotiations with Rogers Communications (2003) while I was president of AFM Local 279 (London). I was immediately impressed by his calm nature and great wealth of knowledge regarding the arts in general and specifically, the music business. Jim used those positive attributes to improve the lives of many artists over the years. We have lost a great advocate for the arts and a very good man. I feel very fortunate to have known him personally and professionally. My sincere personal condolences go to his family and the many, many friends that feel a great loss in his passing

Paul Sharpe

September 21, 2014

On behalf of all my colleagues at Sinfonia Toronto I want to thank you for your wonderful support,help and friendship. You will be dearly missed. Rest in peace Jim Biros.

Nurhan Arman

September 21, 2014

Most Sincere Sympathies. We have lost a true gentleman. He will be missed by the Canadian Conference of Musicians.

Paul Leclair

September 21, 2014

So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He will be greatly missed by all his friends at the Canadian Conference of Musicians

Marg Conway

September 21, 2014

A very special person.......Frank & Nancy DiFelice

September 21, 2014

A very special person........Frank & Nancy DiFelice.

September 21, 2014

I had the honour to be directed by Jim in a play at University of Windsor. He was then and always so giving to aspiring artists. His love of the arts was immeasurable. God bless him and the family he leaves behind. He was wonderful.

Krys Potapczyk

September 21, 2014

Hail and farewell, Jim. In the early days of the Cultural Human Resources Council, it was a pleasure to work with you.

Peter Feldman

September 21, 2014

I was often the elected CAEA Deputy back in the day, and was privileged to work closely with Jim when he was an Equity Business Rep. He encouraged me to be an advocate and I could always rely upon, and trust his knowledge, his strong sense of fair play and his skills as an excellent mediator and mentor. He taught me not only to stand up for myself, but to speak up on behalf of others. He was one of the good guys. God bless him.

September 21, 2014

Thank you for so much help over many years, Jim.

Jack McFadden

September 21, 2014

Jim was like my big brother, we grew up together. He kept a watchful eye on Kate and I as we grew up...he made you laugh...it was a great household to grow up with. Jim was the smartest man I have ever known , we would challenge him with words we pulled from the big red dictionary and we could never stump him. He made the high school dances memorable, booking in bands, maybe the start of his career.....
You touched so many lives Jim, and I am so happy I got to spend the afternoon together recently. You will keep heaven dancing with the love you had for music....KOZ

Deb Kozar

September 21, 2014

We both had the pleasure of working with Jim and have fond memories. He did so much to advocate for Canadian artists and we are the better for it.
Please accept our condolences on his passing.

Lesley Ballantyne And Scott Smith

September 21, 2014

Thinking of the Biros family at this sad time, love Garry and Karen Condon

September 21, 2014

A truly massive loss to all musicians. Jim's passion for the arts and especially for the people who worked in the arts was second to none. Many prayers to Jim's family. I have nothing but extreme respect for Jim and his work. He's made a tremendous impact on the lives of countless musicians. A fabulous man who was always prepared to work and help make things better. We're going to miss you Jim.

Anthony Bastianon

September 21, 2014

Thinking of you Nicole. Sending our love and sympathy for your loss. Stay strong, your Dad will always be in your heart. Love. Daleanne and Joe. X

daleanne head

September 21, 2014

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