FRY, Gordon Arnold

Arnold passed away in the Vernon Jubilee Hospital on August 27, 2020 at the age of 90, with his wife Barbara at his side. He was born in 1930 in Calgary to parents Besse & John Fry.

Arnold met Barbara Bathie in April of 1952 and they were married a year later in Calgary, where their three children were born.

Arnold began his career in Calgary with Imperial Oil; during this time he received his CMA (now CPA) accounting designation. He was transferred with his family to Edmonton and then Norman Wells (NWT) as accounting supervisor of the refinery operation. Upon returning to Edmonton, he was assigned to project controller for the construction of the Imperial Oil Refinery, as well as the Redwater Fertilizer plant. In 1974, Arnold was transferred to Syncrude, and in 1978 he moved with Barbara to Fort McMurray as controller and then was promoted to the position of Vice President and General Manager of Northward Developments, Syncrude’s housing operation. He retired with Barbara to Vernon in 1985.

Arnold was always supportive of his communities throughout his career and retirement, serving as director, treasurer and board member of many organizations.

In their retirement, Arnold and Barbara enjoyed many years of travelling and cycling throughout Europe, California and the Okanagan, and in the winter months they enjoyed cross country skiing near their home in Vernon.

Arnold was well respected by his family, friends and coworkers and will be sadly missed by his wife Barbara, sister Muriel D’Eath, sister-in-law Shirley Fry, along with his three children Debbie Lord (Garth), Douglas Fry (Marie Christine) and Judy Nordman (Eric). He is also survived by his grandchildren Brett Lord (Jenna), Megan Patterson (Brian), Leif Nordman (Fanny), Karli Nordman (Johny), Darcy Rogers (Sarah), Romaric Fry, Cecilia Fry (Fabien) and Gregoire Fry as well as seven great grandchildren.

Arnold is predeceased by his parents John & Besse Fry, brother Dean, brother-in-law Graham D’Eath plus his daughter-in-law Catherine Walle. 

The family wishes to thank the Vernon Jubilee Hospital staff for their care during his brief time in the hospital.

As per Arnold’s request, there will be no service. Those who desire may make a donation in memory of Arnold to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation. 

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home,
Phone: 250-542-4333
Condolences may be offered at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com