It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Glenn Fairey on October 24, 2024. Glenn passed peacefully and with family at his side.
Glenn was born and raised in Haliburton, Ontario and rose above a challenging environment, committed to providing a better life for his wife and children. This remained his core motivation throughout his life and by all accounts, he more than accomplished that goal.
Glenn had a diverse career and a disciplined work ethic. In the late 50’s Glenn joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and was stationed in Cold Lake, Alberta where he met and married the love of his life, Loretta. After 10 years with the Air Force he moved to North Bay, entered the business world and had a successful career in the housing industry, helping hundreds of families in Northern Ontario build and own their own homes. Following this, as a licensed chef, he opened and successfully ran his own restaurant during which he quietly provided meals to those in need, never looking for acknowledgment. He then served as the Chef for the private ONR railcar, worked in the Tourism department of the ONR and in his retirement, worked as a Commissionaire for the city.
Glenn was a builder, tinkerer and problem solver. He was endlessly curious and creative. From building his own homes, making complex stained glass pieces, tearing apart and rebuilding appliances or mastering sudoku, there were very few idle moments in his life.
Glenn loved people. With a keen, observant eye and a brilliant sense of humour, over his years of travel and work he amassed hundreds of entertaining stories which he told with drama and effect. From becoming friends with an indigenous Arctic fisherman he met at the Royal York Hotel or sharing stories with a Texas railroader, he was forever fascinated by the lives and experiences of others and loved recounting their stories.
He lived his life with dignity, strength and integrity. Despite whatever personal challenge he faced over the years or the ravages of old age, he refused to complain and lived life with an iron will.
Glenn is survived by his wife of 66 years, Loretta, sons Timothy (Rena), Christopher (Ginny), Benjamin and granddaughter Rheanna. He was the rock on which his family was built and his sons will continue to live their lives with the values and strength he instilled in them.
After a remarkable life, God has called him home to peace and rest.
The family would like to thank Dr. Jim Vigars for the outstanding care he provided Glenn over the years. Also, special thanks to the wonderful Pod A3 nursing team, North Bay Regional Hospital who to a person, treated him with kindness and compassion.