March 12, 1972 - November 6, 2019
It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of John Michael Fraser (Jay), aged 47, a beloved son, brother, uncle, family member, friend and co-worker, who died by suicide on November 6, 2019.
Jay was a kind, intelligent, and sensitive man with many close friends. The loss of his loyal companionship, fun-loving nature, and unwavering support will be forever missed by so many. From his sister and her family in Calgary, AB, to the Ski Patrol team he worked with at Fernie Alpine Resort, to his "Fernie family" to whom he dedicated his free-time, to the many individuals he worked with throughout his stone masonry career.
Jay was born in Calgary, AB on March 12, 1972. Fueled by many childhood camping, hiking and skiing experiences, Jay developed an early life- long passion for the Rocky Mountains. After graduating from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, ON (1997, BA Major: Geography), Jay moved to Fernie, BC - to live close to his adored childhood friends, Tyler and Darcy and to pursue a career in ski-bumming. His wit and humour, along with his natural athleticism, always added to the day's adventures, whether it be ski touring in the backcountry or exploring (and sometimes building!) Fernie's newest mountain bike trails. It was in Fernie that Jay trained as a stone mason, apprenticing with Mason Jason, and then establishing his own business, Mammoth Masonry. For the past 8 years, Jay was also a valuable member of the Fernie Ski Patrol, a job and team he loved being a part of.
Jay was predeceased by his mother, Margaret Pauline (McLeod) Fraser (1999). He is survived by his father, John Clarence Fraser (Heather); his sister, Kathleen Fraser and brother-in-law, Stacey Radley; his niece and nephew, Julia and Ben Radley; along with extended family members, and his cherished black Labrador/Pointer dog, Billy. He is also survived by many dear Fernie friends, his much beloved "family of choice".
A celebration of Jay's life is planned for December 14, 2019. Friends and family will come together to enjoy the things Jay loved most.... spending time together, skiing at Fernie Alpine Resort, and toasting the day's adventures with an après-ski pint at the Griz Bar.
For those interested, memorial donations can be directed to the Fernie Trails Alliance (funds raised will support a commemorative bench placed atop one of Jay's favourite trails fernietrailsalliance.com) or alternatively, Fernie's new program, Fellaship Men's Group - a safe place for men to be heard fellashipmensgroup@gmail.com.This program is weekly on Mondays at the Fernie Women's Resource Centre, 6-8 pm. Dinner is provided and it is for men, by men.