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Jim Leek worked for JOY 1250 AM from 1995-2015

Jim Leek

Jim Leek was the Morning Host and Music Director at JOY 1250 AM radio from January 1995 to January 2015. He broadcast the Jim Leek "The Breakfast Show" weekdays from 5:30 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. JOY 1250 AM is a Canadian radio station with call letters CJYE. Learn more about JOY 1250 AM from this video.

Jim Leek graduated in 1980 from studies in Church Work at the Institute of Ministry in Bradenton, Florida. Founded by Dr. Gerald Derstine, the Bible leadership training school was designed to develop leaders to their fullest potential. The concentrated courses were used to maximize the individual student's gifts and callings, their ministry potential in their churches, mission field and in the market place.

A variety of courses with skilled instructors and guest speakers contributed to the student's curriculum. A sampling of the course schedule follows: Biblical Studies, World Religions, Work of the Holy Spirit, Supernatural Living, The Mission of the Church, Feasts of Israel, Servant Leadership, Youth Ministry, Healing, Victory over Self Centered Life, Worship and Worship Dance, Sermon Preparation, Evangelism, and Faith.

Jim Leek helped to promote the Greater Toronto "Festival of Hope" on Opening Night with JOY 1250. See the Youtube video clip.

As part of the 2012 GraceTour coordinated by World Vision Canada and JOY 1250, JOY1250 staff were asked what the word GRACE means to them. Jim Leek shares his video response on Vimeo.

In August 2008, Jim lost his brother District Fire Chief Bob Leek to the Sunrise Propane facility fire in North York, Ontario. Hear Jim Leek being interviewed about the loss on the Drew Marshall Radio Show on December 13, 2008.

Jim Leek was scuba diving in Florida

Death

Newspaper Heading "Canadian man dies after scuba diving in Florida Keys" Published: January 30, 2015

KEY LARGO, Fla. (AP) — An autopsy is pending for a Canadian man who died after scuba diving in the Florida Keys.

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says 58-year-old James Leek of Ontario, Canada, died after diving at French Reef in the waters off Key Largo.

Sheriff's office spokeswoman Becky Herrin says the dive vessel came into John Pennekamp State Park on Thursday afternoon with CPR in progress on Leek. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Herrin says that according to the vessel's captain, Leek had been with an instructor on a 38-foot dive that lasted about a half-hour. The captain told deputies that Leek appeared to be fine when they resurfaced, but he became unresponsive when they reached the boat's ladder.

Source: The Tampa Tribune January 30, 2015.

Newspaper Heading "Oakville radio host dies after scuba diving in Florida Keys

An Oakville radio host has died after scuba diving in the Florida Keys.

Jim Leek, 58, was diving at the French Reef off of Key Largo on Thursday, Jan. 29, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s office, which stated an autopsy was pending.

Becky Herrin, a spokesperson from the Florida Keys sheriff’s department, said, according to the diving vessel’s captain, Leek was with an instructor on a 38-foot dive that lasted approximately a half-hour.

“The captain told deputies that Leek appeared to be fine when they resurfaced, but he became unresponsive when they reached the boat’s ladder,” according to an online article by the Tampa Tribune.

CPR was in progress on Leek as he was taken back to shore, to be transported to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Leek was the host of the weekday breakfast show and music director at the Oakville-based JOY 1250, a local Christian radio station.

Prior to the creation of JOY 1250, Leek hosted a Christian music program and was one of Canada’s most knowledgeable and respected program hosts, according to the radio station.

Involved as a director at the Gospel Music Association of Canada, Leek spent his time as a musician and MC.

Source: Oakville Beaver, February 2, 2015

Jim Leek's last Facebook post was ... "I must be getting close to Heaven. Just before crossing over to the Florida Keys I'm having breakfast at a McDonalds & they have Jazz playing on their speakers." on January 22 at 10:10am

Jim Leek was Music Director of JOY 1250 AM Radio

Tribute from Michael Caine President of JOY 1250 AM

"This is a sad week for the JOY 1250 family of staff and listeners. Morning man and Music Director Jim Leek passed away suddenly Thursday while on vacation in Florida. Jim had been with our broadcast family for over 18 years.

He was a caring, warm, funny, and gracious man who was a blessing to his family, dear friends and thousands of listeners. Jim will certainly be missed although we know he is in a much better place. And we take comfort in the Word that “we do not grieve as others who have no hope (1 Thess.4:13)”

Thank you Jim, for a wonderful life lived for our Lord and Saviour. And for touching all of our lives.

A heartfelt 'thank you' to all of our listeners, ministry partners, clients, former co-workers and friends who have kept Jim's family and our staff in their thoughts and prayers as we all grieve his passing."

- Michael Caine, President of JOY 1250 AM, Oakville, Ontario Canada Source: Facebook

• Audio Tribute to Jim Leek aired on JOY 1250 AM Radio on Monday February 2, 2015 at 7:29 a.m. by Michael Caine, President of JOY 1250 AM

Jim Leek connected with radio station managers and show hosts across Canada.

Tributes from Radio Broadcasters and Listeners

"Jim Leek was hosting a Christian music program before there was a JOY 1250 (when Joy was a part of CJMR). When it comes to CCM (Contemporary Christian Music), he is one of Canada's most knowledgeable and respected program hosts. Involved as a director in the GMA Canada (www.gmacanada.ca), he is also a musician and a busy MC." Source: JOY 1250 Radio.

For the history of CJYE AM radio, visit the Canadian Communications Foundation and the Wikipedia entry.

Tributes from Radio Broadcasting professionals and listeners:

• Lorne Anderson, Content Manager for Stingray Digital's "The Light." Lorne was previously the Music Director/News Director for CHRI FM radio in Ottawa
  "Jim was a gem, a friend to all of us. He will be greatly missed!"

• Bob DuBroy, Professional Photographer and Previously the General Manager of CHRI FM radio in Ottawa.
  "Jim was always kind and patient toward me. Kingdom Bound won't be the same without him. Requiescat in pace."

• Scott Jackson, Founder and Station Manager of LIFE 100.3 FM Radio in Barrie, Ontario
  "I guess it's public knowledge now. So sad to hear about the death of our friend Jim Leek, Christian radio pioneer in Canada, long before most of us. He was a Christian musicologist, a true man of God and friend to us all. So very shocking and sad."

• Brian Peroff, Announcer at AM 740 Zoomer Radio
  "He was one of the kindest and nicest people I ever worked with. He cared about those who were around him."

• Robert Borg, radio listener
  "I listened to Jim every morning on the way to work and was encouraged by his light, peace, joy, wisdom and corny jokes. I am saddened that I can't listen to Jim on my drive in anymore, but am elated that you're in Glory with the Lord. You will be dearly missed while we're on earth Jim. We will see you in Glory one day-you're loved."

• Brett Clark, radio listener
  "Wow this is shocking. I remember getting a very nice response to an e-mail I sent to JOY 1250 from Mr Leek. From his response he seemed like a lovely man."

• Joyce Freeman, radio listener
  "I will truly miss listening to you each morning, my friend Jim, but I look very forward to meeting you in person, one beautiful day, up in Heaven! Praise the Lord for the hope, comfort, and peace He brings to all of His followers. Praying love and comfort to all of your loved ones."

• Sharon Galloway, radio listener
  "Wow I am so sad to hear this news. I loved listening to him in the mornings. Loved his quirky sense of humour. Always brought a smile to my face. God bless his family and friends as the grieve."

Jim Leek with Ben Davy formerly morning show host for LIFE 100.3
now with The Peak 95.1 FM in Collingwood.

• Sherry Griffin, General Manager at VOAR Christian Family Radio in Newfoundland
  "Such sad news. My prayers go out to his family, and radio co-workers."

• Denys Springer, radio listener
  "Jim will be greatly missed this year and everyone going forward, I never expected to be so emotional at this news, but when you listen to Jim each day and read his post it is going to be hard on Monday morning knowing we will not hear him this side of Heaven again."

• Flo Walusimbi, radio listener
  "I will miss his voice on the morning show. Got to know him and always chuckled at his jokes. Our prayers with his family at home and at Joy1250."

To add your tribute above, please contact David Spencer.

Jim Leek was a Board member of GMA Canada

Tribute from GMA Canada

GMA Canada the Gospel Music Association of Canada joins many in the Canadian Christian community in mourning the passing of James (Jim) Leek. According to the Tampa Tribune, Jim passed away after after diving at French Reef in the waters off Key Largo, Florida.

Jim was, perhaps, best known as the morning host at Joy1250 in Oakville. Jim was an avid singer and former board member of GMA Canada. He had a deep passion for Canadian Christian artists and was a frequent host at churches, events and fund raisers.

GMA Canada President Martin Smith noted, "Jim was a remarkable man. He was warm, generous and supportive. He was a friend to so many in our community and was always quick with a smile and gentle, sweet encouragement."

Jim Leek with Band "Anthem for Today".
Jim often promoted and encouraged young Canadian talent.

Tributes from Music Ministry Leaders and Friends

Tributes remembering Jim Leek from music ministry leaders and friends:

• Carolyn Arends Singer,Songwriter,Author and Speaker
  "Joining the voices of gratitude for the life and legacy of Jim Leek ... prayers and love to his family and friends ..."

• Al Clarkson
  "Jim's had quite an impact in the GTA for a few decades. I was thrilled to know him for much of this time, beginning when he was a youth and outreach leader at a Church in Scarborough in the early 80s. A few years ago, he was surprised to know that I'd had contact with UK folks and when I mentioned Dave Pope, he told me he'd gone to a concert with Dave in the late 70s, and a few weeks later went forward at an altar call in the same venue; I asked if he'd ever shared that with the concert promoter, whom he knew well--needless to say, the promoter was overjoyed, and today, we all give Thanks for the efforts Jim did with GMA Canada."

• Michelle Sim, President of Northern Praise Ministries and Pastor of Solid Gold Foundations Church
  "So many of us have been blessed byJim...this is a shock and a loss. My husband Ian and I both love Jim and will miss him deeply."

• Debbie Knighton Fortnum, international award-winning singer, songwriter, pianist and worship leader.
  "Mourning such a great loss with you, JOY 1250 family, here in BC. My friendship with Jim began as an artist, and continued due to a unique bond because of his love for the writings of my Great Grandfather, Dr. Andrew Murray. I'll never forget pulling over to the side of the highway in my rental car to do a phone interview with Jim, who was so supportive of my ministry. Thank you Jim for all you brought to radio, to the GMA Canada, and most of all to people's lives across the GTA... My prayers are with your family and friends who grieve your unexpected loss. See you on the other side."

Jim Leek MCing and singing at Inspirational Music in the Park at Gage Park in Brampton.

• Kelita Haverland, Christian Singer, Speaker and Comedian
  "What a great loss. Jim was one of a kind and his presence will be missed by so many. His passion for music, artists, the Word and Jesus were always so evident. He was a friend and someone that truly wanted to support and help in any way he could. I know you are singing up a storm now Jim. RIP my friend."

• Johnny Juarez, professional guitarist and singer
  "Sad to hear that my old friend has passed. He was the dj and director of a radio station in Toronto. He played our music on his station and always supported talented people in Canada. RIP Jim Leek praying for your family during this tough time."

• Allison Lynn
  "We met Jim last year singing at Gage Park. You could tell he loved to sing, and he was so gracious and generous to all the performers, including brand new friends like us. Heaven's choir is sounding a little sweeter this week ..."

• Robin McCracken
  "I first met Jim Leek at a concert back in the late 90's and we met in strangest place of all in the washroom of the church. We have been friends ever since and he came to share his testimony at one of my men's breakfast at Wilmar Heights Baptist Church. I do know that he was battling with headaches constantly but he has no more pain being with our heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. His legacy is that of one who loved the Lord Jesus with all his heart ,mind,soul,and spirit. He will be missed as the voice of Joy 1250 morning show I would call him from time to time when I would pass through Toronto and to find out how he was. He said that he is doing ok."

Jim Leek with Lesley Morgan Smele after a concert at Faith Gospel Tabernacle in Brampton in January 2009.

• Lesley Morgan Smele, Producer of Inspirational Music in the Park, Gage Park, Brampton
  "So so sad!! Miss you already Jim! You were always such a wonderful encourager and advocate for the Inspirational Music in the Park every summer!! Going to miss your golden voice as well!! Thanks for everything....enjoy your promotion!!"

• Janee Olivia, Gospel Music Singer
  "The man- Jim Leek from @joy1250. Thank you so much for playing my music and supporting my career! #thankful #janeeoliviamusic http://instagram.com/p/vgyRl1wssF/ "

Jim Leek with musician Scott Towaij.

• Scott Towaij, Christian Rocker and Worship Leader for Bikers Church, Ottawa, Ontario.
  "Sadened to hear of the loss of Jim Leek. He was always very kind to me. On various radio station tours he would interview me and we would go out and have breakfast and just hang out talking about our shared faith and love of music. I always looked forward to Jim's daily scriptural posts and words of both challenge and encouragement on his Facebook page. This was the last post Jim made, how prophetic: "I must be getting close to Heaven. Just before crossing over to the Florida Keys I'm having breakfast at a McDonalds & they have Jazz playing on their speakers" RIP Jim, you made a difference!"

To add your tribute above, please contact David Spencer.

Jim waves goodbye.

Tributes from Christian Publishers

Tributes remembering Jim Leek from Christian Publishers.

• Fazal Karim Jr., Editor and Publisher of the Christian Herald Newspaper
  "To this point, I haven’t said much about the passing of my friend Jim Leek , because it has been difficult to put into words what we have lost.
  
  Jim launched his career in Christian Radio at the same time I launched the Herald, we were part of a group of people the Lord brought together in the mid-90’s to work alongside each other in sharing the Gospel in Southern Ontario.
  
  In 1994, Jim became part of CJMR 1320's new daytime Christian broadcasting lineup, and worked diligently to secure the station’s success. He then went on to work on launching a full-time Christian radio station for the same company. JOY 1250 has proved to be a great success, and Jim’s voice has been a daily fixture on the local radio dial for more than 20 years.
  
  We worked together on countless projects. We co-promoted events, and worked side-by-side at booths at area concerts and conferences. There are many memories, but a few highlights would be the 1995 Billy Graham Crusade at Skydome, and serving together on the Toronto March for Jesus committee.
  
  We were part of the effort to rescue the Canadian Gospel Music Association from the brink of collapse. The campaign was successful, and the group continues to faithfully serve Christian artists across the country as GMA Canada.
  
  For the past twenty years, we compared notes on what was going on in the city every few days by telephone, and Jim was a constant source of wisdom and encouragement. He even copy-edited the News pages of the Christian Herald on the morning before we went to press.
  
  I know my friend is with his Saviour, and is finally free of the physical pain that he endured. I am glad for this, but I also know that the gifts he brought to the Kingdom work in this region will not easily be replaced. I will miss my friend, and as we continue the work of the Gospel here we will remember his impact on our lives.
  For as long as there is a Church in Southern Ontario, there will be a celebration of his legacy of faith, inspiration, wisdom and perseverance."

To add your tribute above, please contact David Spencer.

Tributes Posted on Facebook

A number of friends and radio listeners left tributes to Jim Leek on Facebook including on Jim Leek's Facebook page and the JOY 1250 Facebook page.

Here are some tribute highlights:

• Glenn Bleakney
  "It is with a profound sense of loss that we announce that one of our closest friends, Jim Leek was promoted to glory. We were in constant contact with one another especially in these past few months. Your life literally impacted thousands of people as the morning show host of Joy 1250 and and beyond that as a caring person with a heart of gold. Though we know you are resting in the arms of the Lord, your family and friends will miss you."

Jim Leek with Life 80 ministry friends.

• Kurt Buchholz, church friend
  "Jim was a great friend at church in the 90 's. He was so kind, gentle and full of peace. My prayers and thoughts go to you and your family."

• Shana Christine Gray
  "In memory of Jim Leek a radio personality and a pillar of hope in Christian music. Great memories. He made a difference in the lives of many and will be remembered as a great friend."

• Phil Morris
  "I just found out my friend Jim Leek just passed away. I'm saddened. He was so encouraging and helpful with my worship leader and ministry. I don't know any details at all, but I would like to come and sing at any memorial."

• David Spencer
  "A fine tribute Fazal. Jim was an encouraging man of God and pioneer and leader in Christian Radio in Canada. I first met and worked with Jim Leek in 1983 when I ran the Christian Musicians' Association out of Brampton, Ontario. We promoted the radio airplay of music by Christians on secular radio stations across Canada. I also produced the Music Ministry Conferences in Ontario in 1985 and 1986 and the Media Ministry Conference in 1999. Jim Leek was involved in all three conferences as a radio ministry workshop leader.
  He was also an inspiration to young Christian musicians and song writers when I first met him in 1983 when I ran the Christian Musicians' Association. May many share his attributes and role model with Canada's youth."

• Terry Yonka
  "RIP Jim Leek from an old friend from our Theatre Sheridan days, Sincerely, Terry Yonka."

To add your tribute above, please contact David Spencer.

Jim Leek reading his Bible during his trip to Israel. Photo by Darren Griffith.

Jim Leek relaxing in the Dead Sea. Photo by Darren Griffith.