John Harold Fraser

May 24, 1945 - October 22, 2023

It is with deep sorrow that the family of John Harold Fraser announce his passing on October 22, 2023, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre. John had a long, courageous battle that he fought bravely until the end. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side at the age of 78 years.

John is survived by the mother of his three children, Jean Shamlock, children: John (Anissa) Fraser, Maurice Fraser (Leanne Bongfeldt), Jennifer (Raymond) Moncrief, grandchildren: Emily Moncrief (Robert Baker), Sarah Moncrief, Hannah Beth Fraser, Cassandra Moncrief (Lucas Brown), Cameron Fraser (Sydney Tella), Nicholas Moncrief, Jazlyn Bongfeldt, great grandchildren: Phoenix Grandbois, Arien Dube, and Kanen Brown, siblings: Larry Fraser, Bob (Linda) Fraser, Eva (Joe) Gan, Bill Fraser, and Richard Fraser, his dear friend and companion, Steffi Landgraf, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins too numerous to name.

He was predeceased by his parents: Harold and Martha Fraser, wife, Virginia (Jeanne) Jorgenson-Fraser, brothers: Donald Fraser and Maurice Fraser, and sisters-in-law: Carol Fraser and Roberta Fraser.

John was born in Eriksdale Manitoba, however, the family returned to Kenora when he was a small child. John would go on to build a life there. He began working at the youthful age of 16 years at the Coke Plant, then the Five Rose Flour Mill, until just prior to turning eighteen, he lied about his age to secure lucrative employment at the Paper mill. He eventually moved to the Powerhouse as an Operator and spent his career there until he retired at the age of 56 years.

John’s hard work and determination were often unmatched. He was a perfectionist, and all projects were completed with great care and precision. He was talented in so many ways, building homes, whether for himself or others, as well as a beautiful camp on Lake of the Woods. John passed these skills on to his sons, son-in law, and grandsons with help on several projects he was so proud of. His legacy will live on through them.

In his free time, John could be found hunting Moose with friends, fishing and of course spending time with his family, especially at his “little slice of heaven” on Lake of the Woods. Recently, he was fortunate to travel to Panama, Germany, and Italy. He spoke excitedly of these times and the historic sites he visited.

John was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church. He was a man of strong faith which helped him through his struggle. He was always willing to help those in need, no matter how big or small. This is very apparent when speaking with his friends and acquaintances who all say, “how great he truly was.”

A memorial service in honour of John’s life will take place on November 18, 2023, at the Notre Dame Catholic Church, (222 1st Street North, Kenora Ontario), at 11:00am, followed by graveside interment at the Lake of the Woods Cemetery, (750 9th Street North, Kenora Ontario). Lunch will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Tbaytel Tamarack House, (984 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay Ontario, P7B 7C7), in John’s name.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Fraser family.