Passed peacefully at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie on Monday June 24, 2024 in his 78th year. Elwood, deeply loved Husband of Deborah Valiquette neè Wilson, loving father of Kara (predeceased), Amy (Kyle Roberts), Jason Valiquette (Natasha), David Valiquette (Haley). Much loved Grampa of Isla and Olivia Roberts, Bennett and Merrick Valiquette. Beloved son of the late Gar and May Fenton. Loved brother of Marilyn (Bud) Bailey (predeceased), Garwood, Don (Mary) Pam (Gerry), and Rick (Lee). Fondly remembered by Lois Fenton Leber and family. Dearly loved son in law of Marilyn and George MacLeod, and Bill Wilson (predeceased). Special nephew to Linda and Derrick Porter. Endeared brother-in-law to Darlene (James), Denise (Kevin), Dianne (predeceased), Donna (Kevin), Deneen (Pete), Deedee (Duane), Cindy (Bob), David (Sherry), Ricky (predeceased). Loved by Nieces and Nephews in Fenton Family, Wilson family, and Belore Family. Many cousins and friends in Port Hope and Area. Friends in Eastern Canada, Ontario, North Carolina. Much loved and supported 24/7 by so many “Brothers and Sisters” in the Couchiching congregation in Orillia, and Midland congregation, especially throughout the past difficult year. Elwood had the ability to touch everyone with his wit, his chuckle, his “tips”, generosity, outspokenness, and depth.
He was a deeply spiritual man who studied the Bible and really tried to follow its direction. He was an elder and an active participant in the ministry in the Couchiching Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He had a willingness to help others in any way he could. He adored his family and friends who were close as family. His grandchildren loved being with him, his pretend grumpiness never fooled them. He had a softness brought out by children and those in need, yet a strength and competence in times of distress.
An accomplished pilot, a mechanical genius, he learned to train horses, farrier, built a home and an airplane he flew for 30 years, created and operated Fenton Auto Parts for 31 years before selling to Paul and Janet Barton. He enjoyed fine food, wine, he LOVED flying, horseback riding, skiing, and most of all the company of friends and family. He loved to dance with the “Girls”, music not too loud, and appreciated a good sleep. He had an all-round knowledge of history, politics, he was fascinated by science, the universe, and the World around him. He read manuals but he also had an innate sense of how to put things together. He was a worker, but he could also relax and savour the moment. He looked forward to a future when there will be no rush to get things done. We have so many great memories. Elwood was a good man. He had so many individuals who were above and beyond kind to him, and we are very grateful for those who treated him with kindness and respect. He was loved deeply and will be greatly missed. Cremation has taken place.
A memorial service to commemorate Elwood’s life will be held on Friday July 26, 2024 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 519 Laclie St., Orillia at 2 P.M.. The service will also be zoomed and you can watch the service at Carson Funeral Homes L. Doolittle Chapel 54 Coldwater St. E., Orillia. A reception will follow at the Carson Funeral Home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada donate.jw.org or to the charity of your choice and will be received by Carson Funeral Homes – L. Doolittle Chapel 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia, Ontario (705)326-3595.
Online condolences and memories may be left at ww.carsonfuneralhomes.com