Edward Alfred Fournier

Edward Alfred (Ned) Fournier, 83, passed away Sunday, October 16, 2022 in his sleep. Ned was born November 16, 1938 to Edward Romeo and Clarice (Kelly) Fournier in Timmins,
Ontario. He was the oldest of three children. Ned lived his early years in Timmins but he eventually moved to the neighbouring community of Schumacher. It was in Schumacher that Ned met his beautiful bride and wife of 61 years, Diane Margaret Colquhoun. They were married September 2, 1961. Ned began a lifetime career in the mining industry during the 1950’s. He started at McIntyre Gold and Copper mine in Schumacher and eventually moved with the company across the country to Grande Cache, Alberta in 1970 to work in the newly developed McIntyre Coal mine.
Ned performed many duties throughout his career; welder, operations foreman, then general maintenance foreman in the preparation plant and finally a purchasing agent. Ned was involved in many activities and organizations throughout his life. He especially loved Hockey and coaching. Ned travelled to Toronto at a young age to play a stint with the Toronto Marlboros and upon returning to Schumacher, he began his 5 decade long coaching career. Ned coached many players including his Son and Grandson. He was President of Grande Cache minor hockey for a time and was also instrumental in the development of the G. C. Muttoneers Old timers team. Ned developed fond memories and friendships while playing during the early years of the Grande Cache Blues senior team. He also enjoyed fastball and slow pitch. Golf was another passion of Ned. He was involved with the development of the beautiful Grande Cache Golf and Country club. Ned was more than happy to organize tournaments and the Smoky River Coal supplier and staff tournaments were always a great success. After retirement Ned and his buddies Chummy, Yogi and Duke could be found daily on the tee box at 6:30am during rain, shine or snow. He even managed a hole in one during a golf vacation. Ned was always happy to provide support and advice. He cherished his family and especially his Grandchildren. Numerous sleep overs, daily school lunch dates and memorable road trips are fondly remembered by all. The family will miss his determination, humour, and dedication. Ned, truly was a guiding force for the Fournier family.

Ned is survived by his wife, Diane; son, James (Cindy) Fournier; grandchildren, Madison (Tanner) Fjellstrom, Jordyn, Austin and Jacob Fournier; sister, Judy Fournier and numerous
nieces and nephews. Ned was predeceased by his brother, Robert Fournier (2000) ; mother, Clarice Fournier (1987) and Father, Edward Romeo Fournier (1976).

A Celebration of Life will be held on a future date when Ned can be surrounded by his cherished grandchildren, family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Grande Cache Minor Hockey, the Grande Cache Golf and Country Club or the Grande Cache Medical Clinic Corporation.

With sorrow, sadness and respect, The Fournier Family.

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