Jim, 87 years, beloved husband of the late Myrt Refvik, father of Coralee, Mitchell and the late Kurt. Jim passed away at the Souris Personal Care Home on September 21, 2025. In keeping with Jim’s wishes, a private family interment was held at the Boissevain Cemetery. In memory of Jim, donations may be made to the Brandon Humane Society.
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Me deepest condolences for the family. To this day, Mr. Refvik was one of the greatest mentors in my life. As a teacher, he taught us to think, how to analyse, how to communicate, and helped me create a lifetime desire for personal growth. When he was filling in as the Guidance Councillor, he gave me directions for what to pursue education-wise after high school, that was exactly the advice that I needed. He will be missed but always remembered.
Mr. Refvik always encouraged me to become a teacher. He was the main reason I pursued education and I hope my career, which he followed, made him proud. Rest in peace my friend!
Another great teacher! Sending my deepest sympathy to the Refvik family.
Pat (Turner) Smith
I love this picture of my Dad as you can see his smile through his pain. I am grateful that he taught me that everyone deserves respect and compassion. Souris is a special place full of special people, and we were blessed to be a family there. My heart soars knowing that my Mom and Dad made a difference to people in this beautiful town. Dad has moved on to be with Mom again, which was always his hope, and I wish them love and peace.
I have been dropping in to visit Jim when I have been in Souris this year. He was in great spirits a couple of weeks ago and I can hardly believe he’s gone. I have great memories of him and his family. You all played a role in my life. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to you both.
So many of my greatest childhood memories are a result of my amazing Grandpa Refvik, along with my wonderful Grandma. Proud to be a Refvik, and so grateful for this great man. Rest in peace Gramp
So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He will be so fondly remembered for his wit, his humour and his commitment to family and friends. A mentor, a cheerleader, a friend, he made a difference both as a teacher and as a family man. School staff parties at your folk’s home were legendary! All were welcome. Our sincere condolences in your loss.
Jim and Myrt introduced me to Judy. They proposed the toast to us at our wedding 51 years ago. We have shared many good times together always involving lots of laughter, good food and a generosity of spirit. I was one of many teachers who came to Souris and found in Jim a tremendous capacity to listen, to reframe the toughest problem, and to enjoy a good laugh. He was a super colleague and a supportive friend. Our condolences to the Refvik family. Jeff and Judy Carter.
I was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. His kindness and the positive influence he had on everyone around him will always be remembered. I hope that all of those special memories will bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Take Care,
Sheree
Had a lot of laughs with Jim as a student and long after the sci days.
Condolences to the family & friends… he was one of the good guys !!
My deepest sympathies. He was a great teacher.
I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s (Mr. Refvik’s) passing – I loved him as a teacher and remember our great discussions in English class – he was an important part of my education. Condolences to the Refvik family. Ruth (Lang) Mealy
Deepest condolences to the Refvik families. He was a great man who will be fondly remembered.
Jim/Mr. Refvik was so patient, calm, kind and good natured with students.
He inspired me to think critically, to communicate in writing, and to enjoy the beauty of English literature .
I am thankful for him.
My condolences to your family,
Sincerely,
Pam Whitfield
Such a sad moment to hear of Jim’s passing. He was such a talented person – as a classroom teacher, as a staff member of Souris school , as a caring person for those around him. He was truly a special person. He was always such a positive person even to his final days. He will be remembered by so many for his personal qualities. My condolences to his family.
It was always a pleasure talking with Mr. Refvik. It seemed like nothing ever fazed him.
He was a great educator, and he and your mom took a young, new to Souris, Science teacher under their wing and welcomed him to the community. My dad never forgot all they did for him and really enjoyed the first few “to hell with bells” coffee meetings in your parents front yard after he retired, as they watched all of the teacher make their way back to school in September.
He was a great man and is back where he belongs beside your mom!
So sorry to hear about Mr. Refvik’s passing.
He was a great teacher and wonderful man.
He was one of my favourite teachers and I’ve often looked back on my school years and remember him fondly.