Written by: Lorne Kinsella
… I raced downstairs to the lobby of the Queen Elizabeth hotel to meet the crew for a four day shoot capturing urban Canada imagery. A fellow approached me as I walked towards the table and, lo and behold, it was my long lost pal Dean Lee. Reuniting with one of my favourite old work colleague’s (and drinking pals) was amazing and emotional.
Dean and I spent the day catching up on everything that had happened over the last 12 years between shots and location hopping. Once we had some quiet break time, Dean explained what had happened to James. Frankly, I couldn’t believe my ears. Surely Dean was talking about another James Lee. But, he wasn’t.
I can’t say that James was in my thoughts on a regular basis after I left Palmer Jarvis, but his presence was constant and of extreme importance in the fabric of my memories about a very special time for me in my career. Whenever I would recall those days, James was there. And there he will remain.
It’s taken some time for this news to sink in. He was an incredible talent.
It’s two years now, but my sincerest condolences to James’ family and close friends.