January 23, 2022
In loving memory ~
Raymond Joseph Amédée Fournier, born in Saint-Mathieu, Québec, passed away at the age of 76 years young early on Sunday morning, January 23, 2022, from a stroke in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada, surrounded by his immediate family. He is survived by his daughters Joëlle (Zachary) and Véronique, and son Jean-Luc (Jade); 4 stepchildren, Brian, Melissa, Charlene, and Daryn; his beloved grandson Louis Ray; companions Gloria and John; his siblings Roger, Yvon, André, Maurice, and Pauline; his extended family; and friends. He is predeceased by his parents Rosario and Germaine Fournier and his brothers Adrien and Gilles.
Born the second of eight, Ray had a strong sense of adventure and moved out to the West Coast of British Columbia at the age of 20 - eventually followed by various siblings - and lived in Terrace, Haida Gwaii, and Prince Rupert. Over the next 56 years he built a successful career as a faller and businessman, raised a family, and contributed to his community. Ray was a hard worker who excelled at most things he tried; had a passion for working with his hands, in his later years this was wood and tile work; and enjoyed running machinery and was also skilled at repairing small equipment. Although he was a quiet man, he had a great sense of humour, was extremely observant, and was quick to laugh at a good joke or story. He enjoyed hockey, good food; a sip of Cointreau, Scotch, or a beer, and he really liked that you didn't have to shovel rain; and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends.
Ray's greatest passion was his children - spending as much time as possible with them, supporting their dreams and aspirations, teaching them skills; and he showed great pride in them and their accomplishments. He showed his love through his time, patience, and simple gestures such as making dinner, attending sporting and academic events, helping with math homework, learning about his children's passions so he could talk to them about it; and later, calls just to check in. Ray also always enjoyed "getting into the bush" and encouraged a love of exploration and wonder, even at the smallest of things. No matter what was going on, he was always there for his children, family, and friends. He is greatly missed by all who knew him and will always remain in our hearts.
The family would like the thank the neighbours, the community, Dr. Ryeburn, support workers, emergency services, and ER and hospital staff who cared for and looked out for Ray in his final years.
A private funeral will be held for the family and a larger celebration of life in the summer, with details to be confirmed at a later date. For those who wish to, we encourage donations to animal and environmental charities in his name.