May 7, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stuart Fraleigh, a beloved husband, father, grandfather & friend. Stu passed away peacefully at home. He was 87 years old.
Born in Wadena, Saskatchewan, in March 1937, Stu led a remarkable life full of adventure, kindness, and joy. Although being severely dyslexic, he obtained degrees in Commerce and Education at U of S through the Canadian Officers Training Corps.
He rose to the rank of full lieutenant in Germany with the 5th Brigade. He cherished his time in the military and the valuable lessons it imparted. Stu often half-jokingly remarked to his children, when they displayed undisciplined behavior, that "maybe you should join the military."
After his military service, Stu embarked on a teaching career in Saskatchewan and BC. His passion for adventure led him to hitchhike through Europe and Africa in the early 1960s, and he later managed the Canadian Restaurant during the 1964 Olympics in Innsbruck.
In 1970, Stu married the love of his life, Barb. Stu was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
He is survived by Barb, their children Matthew, Ned (Cora), Jake (Jena), SooJin (Sean Fallis), Paul, and grandchildren Oscar & Colleen Fraleigh and Murray & Loey Fallis.
In addition to his career and family life, Stu was a talented and self taught musician, playing saxophone in several bands and orchestras. He was a private pilot, avid sailor, skier, and iceboater on Williams Lake.
He was a member of Rotary, several choirs and was instrumental in getting compensation for the homes affected by the landslide on South Lakeside. In his youth, he played hockey and was a champion pole vaulter.
Williams Lake will remember Stu as the first owner/operator of McDonald's which opened in June 1979, and he ran for 22 years. While Stu was passionate about his work, he absolutely adored the staff. He loved chatting with everyone, and whether he knew them or not, he always thought he did.
His children cherish the hot summers spent waterskiing, swimming, and barbecuing with him and Barb on the lake. A prairie boy at heart, Stu was always happy out in the yard, tending to irrigation, fixing things, and getting dirty.
In retirement, Stu enjoyed traveling to Europe, Asia, and Mexico and exploring the beautiful west coast with Barb and their dog on their boat "Oscar", named after his father, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Stu had a generous and kind spirit, was always willing to lend a helping hand and saw people for who they were.
He will be deeply missed
by all who knew him.