Ronald Edward Fairhurst 1934 – 2020

Ronald Edward Fairhurst age 86, passed away peacefully December 19, 2020 after a courageous and determined battle with cancer.  He was in the company of his devoted wife of 62 years, Doreen, his son Bob and daughter in law Nancy at the time of passing. 

Ron was predeceased by his parents Robert and Ida Fairhurst of Medicine Hat, Alberta as well as his youngest brother John, (Jack) and sister in law, Elsie of Regina, Saskatchewan.  He is survived by his wife Doreen, brother Bob (Rita), daughter Deborah (Brian) and sons, Bob (Nancy) and Doug.  He will be remembered in spirit, by his grandsons Michael and Christopher and his step-grandchildren Matthew (Lindsay) and Sarah (Nathan) along with their infant daughter, Lyla.  Ron is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

There was nothing that brought a greater sense of satisfaction and pride to Ron than being surrounded by family and friends. Up until his final days, Ron remained a joyful story teller who thrived in the companionship of others.  His ventures in life always provided great topics of conversation.  He was particularly proud of his 26 years service with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, a career path that was followed by his brothers, Bob and Jack.  The sense of pride their parents felt in having three young R.C.M.P. constables in the family was openly displayed in their home town of Redcliff as Ida Fairhurst proudly hung their red serges on the line “to air” for all the neighbours to see.  It was during Ron’s first posting in White Rock, B.C., that he met the person to whom he would be devoted for life, a young teacher from Fairview, Alberta, Doreen Campbell.  They married in August 1958.  Ron’s career in The Force took him to further postings in “E” Division, (B.C.); namely, Creston, Williams Lake, Dawson Creek, Prince Rupert and finally Kamloops, where he retired as a Staff Sargent.

Ron and Doreen shared a full and active life.  They provided a happy and adventurous childhood to Deb, Bob and Doug and have remained heavily invested in their well-being to this day.  They have been equally devoted as grandparents.  Ron and Doreen shared a love of the outdoors and took part in activities such as cross-country skiing, kayaking, snow-shoeing and hiking mountain trails.  Ron very much enjoyed his time around water and was happy to spend hours of the summer time in a boat pulling waterskiers, fishing or taking guests on lake tours.  In Ron’s retirement years, that followed a second career as an insurance adjuster and claims investigator, he and Doreen enjoyed the great quality of life that Shuswap Lake had to offer, whether it was hosting family and friends at their Scotch Creek cabin or sharing companionship at their home in Chase looking over the lake.  Every year Ron took pride in being the first person to enter that cold lake early in the season to initiate his daily morning swims that last into fall. Ron gave years of service to the community  of Chase through volunteer work as a member of the local Lions Club.  Ron and Doreen took many opportunities to travel throughout Canada and the United States.  One of their most memorable trips occurred in 1993 when they ventured from Chase, B.C. to the east coast of Canada, ending up in Halifax.  Ron, a confident and enthusiastic driver claimed to love the open lanes of the Trans Canada but had other comments to make with regard to the challenges of navigating the narrow streets of Old Quebec in a camper van. 

In addition to sustaining strong family bonds throughout his life, Ron was fortunate to have had a host of friends.  As he entered his final stages of life, he had the support of many.  Ron had great affection and appreciation for the staff of the IV therapy unit the Royal Island Hospital.  He found them to be an invaluable support for his social well-being in addition to his medical needs.   Ron’s family shares this appreciation.  Gratitude is extended, also, to family physician, Dr. DeKoch and oncologist, Dr. Hodgins both of whom provided excellent medical care and respected Ron’s desire for clear and honest medical feedback.  Deep appreciation is offered to the outreach services of the Kamloops United Church and finally, to the many family members and friends who gave Ron the precious gifts of companionship and love in his final months.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to P.I.T. Stop – Kamloops United Church or to The Salvation Army.

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