It is with great emotion that I share the news of the death of my father, Fred Stamper. Fred lived to be 89 ½ years old and had a peaceful and happy passing, surrounded by people who loved him, and telling stories and singing songs until the very end.
A lot of people knew Fred from his many years as a volunteer at the Algonquin Theatre and Girlfriends Getaway Weekend. He was also a strong supporter of our former movie theatre and of Reel Alternatives. He could often be found enjoying a meal at Swiss Chalet or West Side Fish & Chips.
When you met Fred, you would most likely be greeted with a warm hug, a big smile, and a hearty laugh. He was a jovial guy who did not take life too seriously.
Born and raised in Cape Breton, Fred and his wife Josie moved to Ontario in the mid-1950s. Fred loved big during his life – his wife and two daughters and grandson, going to the movies, going out for a good meal, and playing guitar & harmonica, and singing country songs and tunes from down east.
On behalf of Fred’s immediate family (his grandson Steven, Steven’s wife Ashley, and myself) I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and other staff at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital for their incredibly kind and supportive care of Fred during the last 2 weeks of his life. There were many who were involved, but Dr. Kirkpatrick, Dr. McDermot, Tammy, Tristan, and Minsoo deserve special thanks.
I would also like to thank everyone who has reached out to me with condolences, flowers, or stories of their experiences with my dad, all of which have helped me tremendously during this time…Cheryl Stamper
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Fred was my grandfather and although my time spent getting to know him was limited, I loved him immediately. I enjoyed listening to him sing and tell stories about my grandmother, Ruby. He had a big presence and a hearty laugh. He was lovingly named ‘grampy stampy’ by our family. I’m thankful that I got to know him. He will be missed.
Cheryl, we are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful father. We certainly loved his presence as a volunteer at the Algonquin Theatre–his hugs, his smile, his genuine pleasure with life.
Fred and I became friends in the early 2000s
We met at Sprucedale Euchre on Thursday nights and from there made the trek to Aspdin,Huntsville,Dwight,Baysville,Euchre Nights.Even made the trip a few times to The Jays Game.Fred was a Great Friend and I will Miss him Dearly. R.I.P Hammerhead until we meet again. Tom
As a former volunteer at the Algonquin theatre, I enjoyed many nights sitting an chatting with Fred at the back door of the theatre. Fred also helped out at the Junior Otters hockey games for a couple of years as a security person. Fred always had a good story and was a true Leaf fan.
Sorry about your loss
Wilf
Oh Cheryl and family!
It was always a pleasure to be a recipient of the hugs, laughter and huge smile.
Please accept my condolences and a huge hug!
Zelda