It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Edward Allan Fairbridge. Allan passed away on October 22, 2019 at his home surrounded by family and friends at his side.
He was born on April 24, 1939 in the Thunder Bay area. He spent many years working on family farms and took those skills with him on his journeys around the world. He was well educated and as such spent many years teaching in the Toronto area and abroad. He was a lover of nature and all things sports. One of his many talents was writing poetry, which resulted in him becoming published, something he was proud to accomplish.
He is predeceased by his father Ted and mother Cora. He is survived by his two daughters Kelli Gillott (Jeff) and Ashlyn Fairbridge (her mother, Dawn), his two grandchildren Conner and Jade Gillott, also survived by his two sisters Barb Nickerson (Jimmy) and Janice Rofhe (Barry), Niece Pam Sampson (Allan), Nephews Terry Nickerson and Jeff Baltzer (Dania), other nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends spanning coast to coast, especially more recently in the Victoria area.
A Service was held in Victoria at Breakwater Cafe, a place he frequently went to after a match or two of tennis with friends. It was mentioned often that without his influence, the tennis club would not be the huge success it became. This is due to his inclusive nature and inability to accept that an individual didn’t have something to offer whether it be, bridge, billiards or dance. His skills were rarely outmatched, but he always stayed humble with a touch of confidence only he could exude.
He will be sorely missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency, https://bccancerfoundation.com/ways-donate, 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 6V5.
Special thank you to the Palliative Care Team, his doctors and his devoted friend Laima.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Marion Donnelly
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Larry Maydonik Allan was an exceptional friend, an inspiration, and a guy who continually whipped ass in tennis. OH to have you back…..I will take the licking…..over and over again!
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John Roy I knew Allan from his time teaching in China. He ws always someone who thought the best of everyone and new how to enjoy life. We were able to visit him back in 2014 so we were lucky to find him in good health and as busy socially as ever. We travelled together on at least one vacation and had a good time together. I and Angela(met) and Sophia will miss hime a lot.
John Roy
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Marilynn Fletcher I so wish I could have been there to attend the memorial at the cafe. It sounds like a wonderful time and just the kind of remembrance Allan would have loved. My continued condolences and love to the family. I would like to add a few things to the obit from my time knowing Allan very well for 19 years and at a distance for an additional 16. Allan was a terrific listener. He always gave you his complete attention when you spoke. He was optimistic and positive about life; and he had an unfailing sense of humour, as well as a truly wonderful, contagious laugh. He read widely, always with a book on the go. A very hard worker, he gained his post secondary education at night school and summer school. In retirement he continued to work at various jobs. Allan was truly a Renaissance man with so many interests and accomplishments. Rest In Peace, dear Allan!!
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Sandra Markle Sorry to hear of alan s passing..I loved to get on the dance floor with him..he made you look good..Aunt Vicki loved to take him dancing
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The Finholm family Sorry to here of Allen passing. Cancer is a bitch. Sometimes they don’t even know it’s cancer, like in my mom’s case. It’s disguised. Love to you all there and prayers to get through this difficult time.
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Lois Dykstra I am sorry for the passing of my dear Cousin Allen. My condolences to his sisters, daughters and other family members.
Love , Lois Dykstra
RIP your x-stepdaughter Marion