FAIRTHORNE, Gary Thomas

Passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 3, 2019 at the age of 76 years, after a long and very courageous battle with cancer. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Judy (nee Mailhiot) and was the cherished father of Shelley Mae Spina (Lance), and Randy Fairthorne (Rosa). Proud grandfather of Ashley, Brandi, Gilles (Carly), Jesse, Joscelyn (Zack), Josh (Chantelle), Kristi (Luke), and great grandfather/ ”GG” to 11 great grandchildren. Also survived by his sister Bonnie Fairthorne and sister in law Madeleine Fairthorne. His soul is reunited with his parents Ethel and Murray Fairthorne and siblings Jeannie Webster, and John Carl Fairthorne. Gary was an inspiration throughout his treatment and care. His positive attitude and bravery kept us all going. His spirit and will to live never wavered, even when faced with seemingly endless obstacles. He won the battles but lost the war. GARY LOVED LIFE and truly lived it to the fullest! He will always be our HERO!

Gary worked at Byers Truck and Trailer and eventually became co-owner of Bogar Truck Parts and Service from which he retired. He began a new career delivering for Big V Drug Stores (1992) finishing at Shoppers Drug Mart with coworkers with whom he loved and called family. His customers became his friends and he truly loved his job. Gary was a life-long parishioner of St. George’s Anglican Church and active member at St. John’s Anglican Church. He also loved his 22 seasons of camping at Leisure Lake Camp Ground, was an avid golfer, and enjoyed watching Sydney Crosby and his favorite hockey team, the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Gary proudly served with the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve for 38 years and received the Order of Military Merit (MMM) in 1992. He was the first of only 2 members of HMCS Hunter to have been awarded this honour. Recently, the Drill Deck in the new HMCS Hunter was named in his honour as a tribute to his dedicated service. Gary’s achievements, honours and community involvement activities were countless. He devoted his life to service and others. A special thank you to the Windsor Cancer Centre at Met. Campus and the Palliative Care Unit at the Y. Emara Centre for all of your compassionate care.

Visiting Friday from 3-5 and 7-9 pm with a service under the auspices of the Royal Canadian Naval Association at 7:30 pm. A Funeral Service Celebrating Gary’s Life will be on Saturday 11:30 am at FAMILIES FIRST, 1065 Lauzon Rd., East Windsor, 519-969-5841 Procession to Heavenly Rest Cemetery to follow. Share memories, photos or make a donation online at www.FamiliesFirst.ca