James Edward Chesser

Obituary March 23rd, 1957 to February 12th, 2025.

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the sudden passing of Jim Chesser of Jasper, Alberta on February 12, 2025, at the age of 67 years.

He was predeceased by his older brother, Ken in 2009 and his Dad, John in 2014. Jim is survived by his Mom, Lillian and his sister Susan Chesser (Mike Smith) and a multitude of friends.

Born and raised in Jasper, Alberta, Jim excelled in sports. He held a provincial high school record in track and field for many years and was a formidable hockey player. He was scouted in Jasper and went on to play one season with the Chilliwack Bruins of the BCJHL. His teammates included many that went on to the NHL. What Jim lacked in size, he made up for in grit, and he never shied away from a good scrap on the ice.

Jim’s lifelong passion was horses.  Jim was in the saddle at the age of 2 and never looked back. He was a farrier, earning his credentials at Olds College. He was an extremely knowledgeable horseman with 47 years of Parks Canada Service and worked as Jasper National Park Barn Boss and Head Farrier until his retirement in 2023. He had a wealth of information on JNP history and spent decades traveling the backcountry on horseback. He was a true Albertan.

He will be remembered for his endless stories, his thirst for knowledge, passionate personality and his remarkable ability to connect with people. He was one-of-a-kind and not likely someone you will ever forget. He has left meaningful memories with so many.  Jim was exactly who he was. A true character in every sense of the word. He will be dearly missed.

“No hour of life is lost that is spent in the saddle”