Formerly of Queensville, West Gwillimbury and Baxter, in his 91st year, passed away peacefully at IOOF, Barrie on May 28, 2021.
Survived by his “Darling”, Edith (McGregor) Fletcher, dance partner for 70+ years and beloved wife for 59. He leaves behind 3 children,10 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Proud father of Mary Harris (Ron), Catherine (Ken) and James (Sharon). Proud “Seanair” to Ian, Alex (Serenity), Patrick, Mitchell, Margaret, Sheena, Neil (Karen), Cate, James jr. (Hillary)and Jessica (Zack). Great grandfather to McKinnon. Predeceased by his infant sister, Annie (1930); daughter Margaret (1994), and son-in-law John Hoving (2003).
Angus was born at home at Succoth, Dalmally in the Glen Orchy region of Argyll, Scotland, ancient home of both the Fletcher and McGregor clans. He was the last Fletcher born in Glen Orchy and one of the last folks that grew up speaking Gaelic. Born to Catherine (Kate) McKinnon, who he lost at the age of 6, and Alexander (Sandy) Fletcher, who he lost at the age of 19, Angus had to learn strength, independence and resilience at a young age. Angus began his working career as a shepherd, following in the footsteps of his highland ancestors. Later, he worked in both agriculture and construction. Despite only having 7 years of formal education, he was the most brilliant man we knew. He was a self-taught musician (accordion, violin, drums, piano), stone mason, welder, electrician, mechanic, plumber, forklift operator, truck driver, “joiner” (carpenter), heavy equipment operator and more. He was extremely well read (never fiction!) and could converse on every topic under the sun: historical linguistics, politics, world geography, hydroponics, archeology, genetics, world events and the history of everything. His memory for names and dates was unparalleled and he was like a human GPS. After meeting in a heather field in the 1940’s, Angus and Edith “courted” for several years before marrying in 1962. Mary and Catherine were born to them in Scotland, and James and Margaret in Canada. Angus maintained that his two best decisions were marrying Edith and coming to Canada. Although he never forgot his Scottish roots, he always spoke of the wonderful opportunities that Canada had given to his family.
Our family wants to thank Angus’ surrogate family at the IOOF for their outstanding care over the last year and a half. He spoke every day about how good they were to him and Mum. He was never treated like a “patient”, but instead like a family member. He became known to many staff as simply “Seanair”. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to IOOF Seniors Home in Barrie.
Celebration of Life to take place when circumstances permit. Later, Angus will be going home to rest in the centuries old Fletcher plot, in Dalmally, Scotland.
Foisdhut, Seanair