August 23, 1939 – March 2, 2026
James passed away peacefully at the Meaford Hospital on Monday, March 2, 2026 at the age of 86.
Beloved partner of Katherine Carson for 57 years. He is survived by his loving children, Cheryl Fulton, Jesse Fulton (Nicole White), Tristana Fulton Reid (Jonathan Reid), and his cherished grandchildren Valerie, Melissa, Louis, Sawyer, and Leo, and his beloved great-grandchildren Cooper and Vinny. Predeceased by his younger brother Gordon Fulton.
After wrapping up his advertising job for the Toronto Star James made the move to Grey County, where he and Katherine unleashed their passion and culinary skills at the Tillerman House in Holland Centre, which led to their next move to Meaford, where, in partnership with a dear friend, elevated the tastes of the county at the Backstreet Café. The menu was a wish list and led to them being published yearly in Where to Eat in Canada.
All this built a great foundation for his career as a restaurateur and, in his final business foray, saw James as proprietor and head chef of the Mill Café, where he mentored and supported so many who shared in his passion for good food, service, and professionalism.
James and Katherine’s wanderlust were truly kickstarted in the early years with their discovery of Mexico by motorcycle. It fueled their love of travel and exploration. In response to his stated distaste of winter, Mexico beckoned them, and for many years they spent time in Bucerias raising their children, making connections in the community and welcoming their friends and family throughout their retirement.
Their travels to Europe were highlights for James and he never stopped professing his love for Paris and his wish to return to the galleries, cafés, and history. Just one more time was his credo.
James was extraordinary – a true soulmate, delightful, fearless, and an intrinsically wild spirit who touched every life he encountered. He loved to know what was going on and had opinions galore. Seeing his dog-eared copies of the New Yorker over the years was proof that he was on top of things! His passion for life, his brilliant mind, and his loving heart were gifts to us all.
He was a guiding light, a cherished friend, and an inspiring father, grandfather, and husband. His laughter, his culinary delights, love of fun and his fearless adventures will forever be etched in our memories and bring solace to our many weary hearts.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit remains alive in the love he gave so freely and in the stories we share. He will come to mind in our laughs at dinner, the sizzle of a steak and the crackle of a Blue Jays game on the radio. James will be missed, remembered, and always loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Don’t forget your water guns!
As your expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers donations may be made to Meaford Hospital Foundation, would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON, N4L 1B9, to whom arrangements have been entrusted.
