James Kamstra

Can't Sit Still James Kamstra

Jim (Tjebbe) Kamstra was a passionate man with a zest for life, who put himself fully in whatever he did, whether running a business, raising a family, fishing, flying his plane, dancing with his wife or fundraising for charity. This book is the life story of Jim, an immigrant who made it in a new country - his milestones, adventures, successes and mishaps. Jim was one who lived life fully.




Growing up in the Netherlands during the Great Depression, then living under German occupation in World War II, Jim learned that he would have to take advantage of whatever opportunities presented themselves. Jim came out of the Great War a young man full of ambition, ready to make his way in the world. The Netherlands held few opportunities at the time, so he emigrated to Canada.




With a tireless work ethic and willingness to do whatever it took to get a job done; Jim impressed anyone for whom he ever worked. However, he realized that he would never be satisfied working for someone else. Even a business partnership did not work for Jim, he had to be his own boss. Since Jim loved gardening, he created a small landscaping company, growing it slowly with every opportunity until it became a successful operation and a family legacy. Jim experienced many challenges along the way and sometimes took more risks than he should have. Often he forged ahead without thinking of all the consequences which sometimes got him into trouble. As a result, he experienced setbacks and suffered more than his share of accidents, on land, air and water. Nevertheless, his determination and 'never give up' attitude got him through, at least most of the time.