FORDHAM, Frank (Red) Richard
August 29, 1924- June 3, 2018
With deep sadness but much gratitude for the long, active life he lived, the family of Frank (Red) Richard Fordham announces his peaceful passing with loved ones by his side at Juravinski Hospital, Hamilton on Sunday, June 3, 2018. The cherished husband of Hedy for 35 years, Frank was the beloved and devoted Dad of Ruth Pearson, the late Byron, his wife Barb Fordham, Gary and wife Michele Fordham and stepchildren Valorie Dyck and Gerry Dyck. Frank was the proud Grandpa to Eric (Sarah) Fordham, Tyler Fordham, Spencer (Sheena) Fordham, Heather (John) Panteleit and Diane (Len) Kilby. His great-grandchildren Ryan, Jack and Kate Panteleit and Seamus and Nolan Kilby brought him great joy. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank William and Alice (Greenaway) Fordham, his beloved late first wife Elsie (Bayliss), his son Byron and his brothers Herb (Lillian) Blake and Cecil (Mern) Blake. Frank was proud to be the “patriarch” of the extended family and will be greatly missed by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A man with a strong faith, Frank was a longtime, active member of King St. Baptist Church and in recent years worshipped at MacNab St. Presbyterian Church, Hamilton. After retiring from Bell Canada with over 35 years of service, Frank enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, gardening, pursuing his interest in History, and in particular sharing his knowledge of Winston Churchill in presentations to various groups. Also he was a keen traveller exploring many parts of the world. A highlight of his trips was his last one, a journey to Britain, the homeland of his parents, and to France with Hedy and Ruth for the 100th anniversary ceremonies at Vimy in April 2017. Frank was a devoted 54 year member and Past Master of Wardrope Lodge No. 555 A.F. & A.m.Honourary Member of Oakwood Lodge No. 553 (York Lodge No. 156, Toronto), District Deputy Grand Master of Hamilton District “C” in 1980. In 1996, he was coroneted an Honourary Inspector General of the 33rd Degree, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in Canada. He was also a longtime Chairman of The Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation. The family wishes to express its deep gratitude to the staff of E3 Medical, Juravinski Hospital for their care and compassion. A private family interment is to be held. A service to celebrate Frank’s life is planned for Sunday, June 17, 2018 at 3 p.m. at The Scottish Rite, Hamilton (corner of King St. W. & Queen St) with visitation between 1-3 p.m., a brief Masonic service at 2:30 p.m. and a reception following. The Rev. Steve Baldry will officiate. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to The Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation (donations can be made online) or to a charity of your choice.