Sir Knight James J

Sir Knight James J. Tracey

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The man once known as The Senator by his colleagues on Cobourg town council died Thursday January 8, 1987 at the Cobourg District General Hospital. James Joseph Tracey, 82 had served on Cobourg Council for seven years, retiring in 1978. He was later a member of the Public Utilities Commission for three years.

"He was probably one of the most dedicated people I have ever met" Ross Quigley, a long time colleague, said yesterday as he remembered Tracey. "He just didn't miss meetings. He was terribly dedicated," Quigley said in recounting instances when Tracey put his responsibilities to public organizations ahead of his own health.

Tracey was born in Toronto in 1905. He came to Cobourg more than 40 years ago, retiring from the Department of National Defense in 1969. He had worked at the depot for about 16 years and elected to spend his retirement in Cobourg. "Jim just really fell in love with Cobourg. Cobourg was good to him. He wanted to put something back into the town," Quigley said.

Putting something back into the community included stints on the Cobourg Separate School Board, his time council and almost 15 years as recording secretary for the Legion Minor Soft Ball Association. While on council he served on public works, police, fire water and light committees, environmental committee, the labor relations committee and the town's industrial commission.

"He was vitally interested in young people. He was Interested in the parks, in making sure there were lots of recreational areas for young people," said a former Cobourg mayor, Jack Heenan. He added that Tracey's nick-name, The Senator, was given to him in honor of his energy and the zest he showed in carrying out his job. "He was dedicated to Cobourg. Here, he was out of the rat race," Heenan said. There was no way he was ever going to forsake Cobourg. Heenan used such words as gregarious and dedicated, in describing the man who was respected by all, and who, in true political style, "just loved a good election."

Tracey served a 13-year term on the Cobourg Fire Prevention Committee. He was also a long-time associate member of the Cobourg Chamber of Commerce and was active in the Cobourg Legion. In addition he spent more than 40 years working with the Knights of Columbus, serving in a variety of capacities. He Served on the executive as Financial Secretary, Grand Knight and District Deputy. He also served as chairman of the Knights of Columbus's 200 Club. which raised money for community projects. Tracey worked regularly at the Monday Knights of Columbus bingo evenings.

"He was a really generous person. He always worked hard for the community. He was a very prayerful person," a long-time friend, Bob Clement, recalled yesterday.

Born in 1905 he passed away at the age of 82 January 8, 1987. Tracey is survived by his wife, Madeline Gallagher. He was the brother of Mary Dunn of Etobicoke, Janet Cooper of Toronto and Gerry of Toronto. He was predeceased by a brother, John. Funeral services were held Saturday with interment in St. Michael's Cemetery.

Source: Cobourg Daily Star - January 13, 1987

In service to one.... In service to all.