Raymond James Fantham

Raymond James Fantham (Lt. Colonel) passed peacefully April 28, 2018 at the age of 89. Ray is survived by his best friend, fellow adventurer and loving wife of 64 years Helen Fantham (née Stinson). Daughter Judy Fantham (David Hillock), son Rick (Tina) and grand-children Matt Sikstrom (Mindy), Kent Sikstrom, Ryan Fantham (Leanne), Steve Fantham (Roslyn) and Mallory Fantham. “GP” marvelled at his energetic great grand-children Kaylin and Jett. Ray was preceded in death by his grandson, Stefan Sikstrom (Melissa). He is survived by his sisters Joan VanOrder and Laura Bennett as well as numerous nephews, nieces and their families. Ray was a highly accredited pilot for the RCAF. Career highlights included his posting to Takoradi Ghana - shortly after Ghana gained its independence - as an instructor for the new Ghanaian Air Force and as Commandant of the Management School for the Collège Militaire Royal de Saint-Jean, Quebec. After a nomadic life of postings, Ray and Helen settled in his birthplace of Kingston, Ontario where they enjoyed a retirement rich with great friends and good bridge. Ray will forever be remembered not for his illustrious career but as a Father who defined trust and respect and fairness and caring for his children, and the Grandpa who playfully chased giggling youngsters through the “down forest,” patiently chiseled wooden swords and baited hooks only to let the catch swim free. Funeral service to be held Monday May 14 at 10 a.m. at R.S. Kane Funeral Home, 6150 Yonge Street, Toronto. Light lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society through the R.S. Kane website or at www.alz.to would be appreciated.