Jim Lane

Jim Lane of Birtle, Manitoba passed away on August 22, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on March 31, 1948, in Birtle, Jim was the second of six children to Fred and Ethel Lane. His early years were spent in the communities of Solsgirth and Birtle, where he attended school until Grade 10. He later pursued his passion for craftsmanship, earning a welding diploma in Brandon, and went on to work at various potash mines as a licensed welder.

Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to open his own welding shop in the family yard, where his creativity and skill flourished. In the 1980s, he became one of many PMU producers, blending his work ethic with his deep love for animals. Horses were a lifelong passion—Jim was especially proud of his homebred Percherons and Friesian crosses, which earned recognition across North America. His legacy lives on through Lone Oak Percherons and the JL prefix, a mark of quality and pride that his family will continue to uphold.

On May 1, 1971, Jim married his childhood schoolmate and lifelong partner, Darlene Tutkaluk. Together they raised their daughter Tina, born on September 27, 1974. Jim was known affectionately as “Jinxy” in his younger years—a nickname earned through his legendary pranks and uncanny ability to talk his way out of any situation.

Jim’s creativity extended far beyond welding. His company, Jim Lane Ltd., left its signature black label on draft horse wagons, livestock trailers, Birtle Ag Society grand stands and a variety of “Jimmy” originals—from horse-drawn carriages and hunting stands to his most recent creation, a boathouse at Stuart Lake. He was always building, always dreaming.

Jim was known for his signature phrase, “Can I get you for a minute?”—though anyone who knew him understood that “a minute” usually meant an hour (or more) of lending a hand with one of his countless projects, or helping steady a horse or team. His enthusiasm for his Dream Teams was infectious; he could talk horses for hours and was never shy about chirping at them, even when he wasn’t the one holding the lines. No matter what he was in the middle of—whether welding, building, or even driving a six-horse hitch—Jim always answered his phone.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Fred and Ethel Lane, and his brother-in-law Howard Pederick. He leaves behind his devoted wife Darlene, daughter Tina, son-in-law David Collier, and cherished grandchildren: Cortney, Chelsey (Tanner Nedohin), and Robin (Dawson Lelond). He is also survived by his siblings: Donna Pederick, David (Gail) Lane, Laura (Norman) Graham, Tammy (Harold) Graham, and Tom Lane, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Jim’s legacy is etched in hard work, quick wit, and a heart as big as the teams he drove. He leaves behind a trail of laughter, craftsmanship, and unforgettable stories—each one a testament to the life he lived and the people he loved. To know Jim was to be part of something special, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of sharing in his journey.

And as Jimmy would always say, with that unmistakable tone of sincerity and grit: “Protect yourself and respect yourself.” Words to live by, from a man who truly did.