Obituary of Garnet Wayne Stairs

Garnet Wayne Stairs of Fredericton, New Brunswick passed away on October 31, 2020. Born in 1945, Garnet was one of five children (Edith, Joan, Amber and John) who grew up and prospered in the Fredericton area. He was the middle son of the late Julia (McElwain) and Henry Stairs. Garnet was predeceased by his wife Mary Lou in 2018, whom he shared a lifelong love with, theirs was a special bond. An avid sportsman, Garnet excelled in many areas, particularly Hockey and Body Building (where he won several awards including the 1999 New Brunswick Masters Division Title). He enjoyed all of his sports and any competition, but more so enjoyed the people he met and became friends with through them. He remained involved in Hockey even after his own career had ended through his ownership of the Fredericton Junior Red Wings in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Supporting this team, and many others through his life, were among some of his fondest sporting memories. Many young people are better today for Garnet's generosity and kindness. He was dedicated to everything he set his mind to, loyal to a fault and old school honest. He enjoyed a good debate, was rarely wrong (never), always fair and loved the underdog (think Leafs and Jays). Thankfully, he had the Patriots (who he adopted in the 80s when they actually were an underdog) to help ease that Toronto pain over the last two decades. He was successful in all aspects of life, family, sports, friendships, and business. The simplest of things brought him the greatest pleasure, he was unique in this way. He will be missed by son, Craig (Melissa) and daughter Kim (Tony) as well as three granddaughters whom he cherished deeply, Brittney, Morgan and Ryan. Several nieces, nephews, extended family, and others considered him an important part of their lives. Garnet developed a special, lifelong, kinship with his niece Megan. They shared mutual interest in many areas, sport related and otherwise, and always went out of their way to make time for one another. Many, many friends over the years, including his Breakfast Gang, who were supportive to the end and special neighbors in his Condo Building, who always looked out for him, will also share in this loss. Special thanks to Dr. Cameron and the staff in 4SE, as well as Danny, Louise and Phillipa who helped him so much over the past few weeks. There will be no visitation. A celebration of Garnet’s life will be held from the J.A. McAdam Memorial Chapel on Friday, November 6th, at 11:00 am with Fr. John Jennings officiating. Due to Covid-19 social distancing restrictions attendance will be by reservation only. To reserve your seats please email mcadams@mcadamsfh.com or phone (506) 458-9170. In your RSVP, please include names, phone numbers, and the number of people in your group. A livestream of Garnet’s service will be viewable at the following link: https://vimeo.com/474674108 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the CNIB. Online condolences can be left at www.mcadamsfh.com.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the CNIB. McAdam's Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.