In Memoriam – Jim Dehoney

Our colleague and friend Jim Dehoney passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, surrounded by his family. His illness and diagnosis were both sudden and unforgiving.

When Jim was asked how he got started in the life insurance industry over 40 years ago, his words were, “Like father, like son.” Jim credited his father as both role model and mentor.

Jim attributed much of his business grounding to IBM, where he worked after earning his degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas and prior to joining Manulife Financial, as a licensed insurance agent. Jim recalls IBM was firm but fair, structured but flexible, and placed a premium on honesty and hard work.

Jim always wanted to build a business, hire the best people, and offer outstanding services and products. Dehoney Financial Group embodies that original vision—a vibrant insurance advisory firm providing group benefits, retirement, and personal financial advice. He guided the firm that has grown to over thirty employees, many of his team with him for over 20 years.

Jim’s motto was simple. Your clients come first. Always act with integrity. And our word is our bond.

The company’s reputation for hard work and integrity is a true reflection of Jim, whose greatest satisfaction came from helping others, and who did it with boundless enthusiasm, a light touch of humour and, perhaps most admirably, always with an infectious smile.

Jim was a large presence in our industry, our community, and our lives. Jim was kayaking in September, carving pumpkins with his team at Halloween, and working daily until the last week of November. We have lost a trusted advisor and friend.

Jim will be missed but remembered and honoured in our lives and our work.