It is with profound sadness that the family of Ed McTavish announces his passing on Thursday, June 16, 2016 at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances, Ont.
Ed was born Feb. 2, 1952 in Fort Frances to Jack and Leah McTavish, and lived the younger part of his life in Devlin, Ont.
He worked at various businesses in the area before he took a job at the local paper mill, where he worked as an oiler for more than 30 years until his retirement.
He met the love of his life, Gail Gurniak, at a mutual friend’s wedding. Ed enjoyed riding his motorcryle and the two of them often would be seen out touring around through the area.
They were united in marriage on Aug. 7, 1976 and together they raised three children, Michael, Jamie, and Tanis. He loved them all dearly and especially cherished his grandchildren.
Along with being a huge Toronto Maple Leafs’ fan, Ed loved to bake and create tantalizing meals.
His passion was his gardens and he truly had a green thumb. This was evident by the beautiful flower gardens of lilies, and his amazing strawberry and blueberry beds.
Ed also was an avid dog lover; he spent many hours throughout the years throwing balls for “Skippy” and later for “Buddie.”
He will be greatly missed by his wife, Gail; children, Michael McTavish, Jamie McTavish, and his children, Tira, Halle, and Taylor, and Tanis (Ryan) Flamand, and their children, Tucker, Logan, and Ainsley.
Ed also is survived by his brothers, Ken (Joan), Allan (Lorriane), Bob (Karen), Ron (Charlene), and Doug (Patti); sisters, Flora Richardson, Shirley Atkins, Evelyn (Fred) Hyatt, Pat (Bob) Gosselin, and Stella (Don) Nichols; mother-in-law, Dorothy Tkachuk; sisters-in-law, Roxanne Dustin, Micheliane (Harvey) Vien, and Joan Ronmark (Bob); and brothers-in-law, Rob (Melissa), David, and Dwayne Gurniak.
He also leaves numerous nieces and nephews.
Ed was predeceased by his parents; brother, Jim; and father-in-law, Mike Gurniak.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Knox United Church in Fort Frances, with Rev. Barbara Miller officiating.
The honourary pallbearers will be Wayne Skirten, Robin Girmard, Tom Foley, Pete Bruyere, and Ed Rydell
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Friends of Animals, 404-225 Scott St., Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 2A2.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
ED McTAVISH
