Vale James Burrowes OAM 1923-2024

We at Virtual War Memorial Australia would like to extend our condolences to the family of James Burrowes OAM who passed away peacefully on 7 July 2024, at the age of 101.

James Burrowes, popularly known as Jim, was born in Port Melbourne on March 29th, 1923, along with his twin brother Tom. His life, spanning over a century, was marked by several challenges and achievements. Growing up during the Great Depression, Jim faced many hardships. However, he went on to serve his country during World War II as a Coastwatcher and suffered tragedies as a young man, including the loss of both of his brothers in war, Robert and his twin, Tom.

Jim's business career was long and successful, and he enjoyed a blissful 73-year marriage to his lovely wife Beryl. Together, they raised four children and were blessed with four grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. Jim's commitment to his community led to his being awarded an OAM in 1990.

Jim spent his retirement years drawing attention to the pivotal role that Coastwatchers played in winning the war in the Pacific.

He was, in the words of Beryl, ‘a good, kind, and gentle man’.

Our thoughts are with Beryl and the rest of his family during this time.

We will remember him.