Wilfrid Laurier University mourns passing of Associate Professor James (Jim) Overboe

Jan. 10, 2024

Wilfrid Laurier University mourns the passing of James (Jim) Overboe, an associate professor in the Faculty of Arts. Jim passed away on Jan. 7 at the age of 70 after a brief but determined battle with cancer.

Jim began at Laurier in July 2005 and became a beloved faculty member among students and his teaching peers. Jim lived with a disability and his resilient spirit, unwavering tenacity and sharp intellect served as an inspiration to many. He made a lasting impact at Laurier and is remembered as a valued and selfless friend and colleague.

“Jim’s teaching and work with students was his passion and purpose in life,” says Professor Jasmin Zine, Jim’s colleague in the Faculty of Arts. “He was recognized and respected as being a wise, generous, inspiring and compassionate teacher and scholar who truly cared for his students.”

Jim grew up in Clinton, Ontario before pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work degree at King’s College, completing a Master of Arts degree at the University of Victoria, and earning his PhD at the University of British Columbia. Following his time in British Columbia, Jim returned to Ontario and embarked on his teaching journey at Laurier. Through his work at Laurier, Jim advocated for social justice and worked to support people living with disabilities.

Before his passing, Jim received dozens of heartfelt messages from his former students, who spoke highly of the lasting impact he had on their lives through teaching and mentorship.

“Your classes were not just courses to me, they were transformative experiences,” noted one of Jim’s students. “Your empathetic and compassionate approach made a lasting impression and I honestly don’t know if I would have graduated if it wasn’t for you. I want to thank you for changing my life.”

A celebration of Jim’s life and legacy will be held at a later date. Messages of condolence for the Overboe family are welcome at Falconer Funeral Homes website and donations to a charity of your choice are appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Flags will be lowered across Laurier’s campuses in tribute to Jim.

Read Jim’s obituary on the Falconer Funeral Homes website.

As Laurier mourns the loss of Jim, the university is focused on offering support and ensuring the well-being of students, faculty and staff. Laurier reminds students, staff and faculty of the support services available:

• Student Wellness Centres: 548.889.3239 (Waterloo), 519.756.8228 x5803 (Brantford) or wellness@wlu.ca
• Here 24/7: 1.844.437.3247
• Delton Glebe Counselling Centre: 519.884.3305 or glebecentre@wlu.ca
• Dean of Students Office: deanofstudentswl@wlu.ca (Waterloo) or deanofstudentsbr@wlu.ca (Brantford)
• Laurier Human Resources’ Employee and Family Assistance Program: Kii at 1.800.814.0018
• Laurier Special Constable Service: 519.885.3333 (Waterloo) or 519.770.3778 (Brantford)