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The family of Todd Arthur Fitchett uploaded a photo
Monday, June 11, 2018
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Greg Thornton posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Firstly I must apologies for waiting so long to post in this Todd’s memoriam. You see, I have not yet been able to bring myself to do this as it is one last thing that I could do for my old friend and the act of doing so is a final acknowledgement that he has in fact passed from this world and will no longer be a living breathing part of my life. I was overseas on the final days of an adventure in the Philippines when I got word of his passing and was truly devastated by the news. I was even thinking of Todd on that very day, thinking of the stories I would share with him when I got back home. Todd loved a good adventure of which we had many and I will do my best to paint a picture or at least a snapshot of how important a roll Todd had in my life.
I would consider Todd to have been one of the best friends I have ever had in my life. It is said that a man can consider himself lucky if in his lifetime he can count his true friends on the fingers of one hand and Todd had his spot among those fingers. You see, Todd was a true friend! He was not judgmental or critical, although he would often offer constructive criticism and had his special view of the world. He would often surprise me with his complex understanding of human nature and would stand his ground when he was sure his views were the correct views; but he would also keep his mind open to the possibility that he may in fact be mistaken and was the first to admit it if he were indeed mistaken. He loved a good debate but would not argue for the sake of argument but rather only when there was an important underlying conviction or truth at steak like who was more influential in the development of the American Punk music movement or the chronological history and membership of bands from the Seattle grunge scene. It was Todd’s depth of character and convictions to the things that were important to him and his sense of what is good and right that were his most endearing qualities, qualities that would forge a strong friendship that lasted just over 10 years.
I first met Todd when I was in my late 30s. I was in a local pub enjoying a pint and up strolls this long haired young fellow with a cane. The bar was quite full and the only vacant seat was jammed up next to me, so Todd pills the stool back and says in his loud and friendly voice “anybody sitting here” to which I replied not yet, to which he replied “well I am now” and let out one of his signature chuckles. His laugh was infectious! I recall almost all the talking points of our first meeting as we had so much in common. Todd told me of his accident which he was still in recovery from and that he was engaged in physiotherapy to help get him walking without the “stupid cane” again. I told him that I had also been involved in a car accident and had many similar physical complaints and found that cycling was a good therapy for my back issues; I asked him if his therapist had ever mentioned cycling as a form of therapy to which he replied no…but I’m going to ask her about it! Two or three weeks later Todd shows up at the same pub, walks right up with a big grin on his face and said “guess what” I got me a bike! A nice one too! We had a few pints and decided that a joint outing was called for sometime later that week, thus began our friendship.
As I recall we did a lot of mountain biking that summer and many other summers that followed. We would start the season off with easy longish paved path rides to limber up and get the legs working. Favorite paved rides of Todd’s included the Oshawa Trail from Wilson to the lake and back as a season opener and also day-long rides on the lakefront trail from Oshawa to Frenchman’s Bay Pickering and back. Todd’s favorite place however was in the forest. We spent many a day riding Durham forest north on its tight technical single track and once we were sure we were physically prepared, we would venture over to the Glen Major to do the down and back ride, which was particularly grueling on the uphill segment coming back. Todd loved the forest! He would occasionally stop and marvel at a particularly beautiful tree identifying it and sharing some facts about the woods strength uses and whether it was best for firewood or carpentry. After our rides we would spend some time together either by his fire pit or at my home listening to music, playing guitar and drinking some browns as we recalled the day’s adventures on the trail “good times” as Todd would say “good times indeed”.
Our next big adventure was a camping trip up to Tobermory with bikes in tote. We rode on 400 million year old rock through forests of spruce and pine always keeping an eye out for those pesky rattlesnakes and black bears. We hiked the Bruce trail to 200 foot cliffs that dropped off sheer into the cool blue depths of the Georgian Bays crystal clear water. We spelunked the grotto’s caves and swam in six foot waves. Campfires and Bbq’s at night over the open fire. On one particularly long hike I recall Todd stopping and breaking into laughter, laughing out loud. I asked him what was so funny, he said “I was just thinking to myself about those doctors that told me I would never be able to walk normally again…well if they could only see me now…”F” them just “F” them! Todd had got himself back into shape and he was reveling in his victory.
As a side note, I thought I should mention that Todd was talking about his sister Adrian and her family on this very trail. He said something to the effect of “man, I gotta come back here and bring my Sister and her kids camping here, she would love it , just love it” Todd would often mention his family in conversation or recollections as they were very important to him.
Other adventures we shared were more of the social variety, weather a trip to Peterborough to see old friends or heading to Toronto to take in a concert or two. Todd enjoyed and was engaged in the act of enjoying life which made him a pleasure to be around.
Regarding Todd’s character, it is no secret that there were those who lived near him that had no time for a long hair like Todd; It is there loss that they were so quick to stereotype and judge a book by its cover as had they spent the time to get to know Todd, they would have discovered his true nature. Todd was a people person! To those who gave Todd a chance they would discover a real neighbor and friend that would do anything in his power to be of assistance. Many people from the condominium building did take the time to know Todd and they were the lucky ones!
Todd had a marvelous ability to remember people’s names on first meeting. This ability of his amazed me on more than one occasion like the time we went camping and after only one day he was able to recite not only the names but also the occupation and home towns of almost every camper on our lane. This is because Todd had a sincere interest in people and would engage in conversations with his neighbors no matter where he was. You see Todd was a people person Todd was the kind of person that would jump at an opportunity to help out a friend in need and would lend you his last 20 dollars if he felt you needed it more than he
Todd loved animals and nature, his music, his food, his garlic and his Swiss chard, his borscht and his pickled beets. Todd loved his Bbq’s, he loved his friends and his family, his brother and his sisters his mother and his father. Todd loved a good joke or a good laugh and a good story and he was good at telling them all, Todd loved life! And it makes me sad that life was taken from him far far too soon.
I will hold onto all of the good memories and good times that we shared and raise a toast in Todd’s name from time to time in his remembrance. I am sure Todd will hear the glasses clink from the other side and be with us in spirit. I am sure Todd has worked out things with his maker by now ..even though Todd was a bit angry with the big guy in the sky …Todd is not one that harbors long grudges.
Put in a word for me my friend, May you rest in peace brother…until we meet again.
We did have some “good times… some real good times”
Your friend always,
Greg Thornton.
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Heidi and Don McKitterick posted a condolence
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Dear Marilyn and Gary. We just learned of Todd's passing and want you to know how saddened we are. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Don and Heidi
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Nancy Hoo donated to THE HOSPITAL FOR SICK CHILDREN FOUNDATION
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
This donation is made in memory of Todd Fitchett
Paul, my deepest sympathies to you and your family.
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Amira Saleh donated to THE HOSPITAL FOR SICK CHILDREN FOUNDATION
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Gary, I am making this donation in memory of your son Todd. May he eternally rest in peace.
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Amy-Marie GARDIE (the little sister) posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
It has taken me days to find the words to express the emotions felt after the loss of my brother Todd. I'm still not quite sure what to say...
I was not able to make the voyage home for the celebration of Todd's life, something I will surely regret for much time to come. I have checked this page daily, sometimes multiple times a day, to read the stories/memories people have shared regarding Todd, and have been relayed personal messages delivered verbally through family. I guess I would foremost like to say thank you.
Thank you to everyone who has posted on this page, or has comeforth in some form to share a story of memory of Todd. He was always a "rare bird", there was no doubting that. I only knew my brother from his teen years and up, when the road could get a little bumpy from time to time. Obviously the family pictures and stories have always been seen and told, but it's now entirely different when it is coming from outside the family circle. My children will never know their uncle, so the happy stories told will be their memories for life of the long haired bearded guy they see in pictures.
Leslie Allin, the story about Todd playing saxophone for the cows walking down the hill is quite possibly the funniest of them all. I now teach saxophone, on the other side of the world, and did not know that Todd played that much (let alone at all!).
I guess it's now my turn to share a memory of Todd. This is definitely in my top 5 all-time favorite family memories, as it was quite possibly the last time ENTIRE family (aunts, uncles + cousins) were all reunited some 17 yrs ago...
Christmas dinner, delicious meal, lovely conversations... then Todd mistakenly confused "gerth" for "Garth" (character from Wayne's World). It was FANTASTIC, as whatever conversation we were having (because what 12 yr olds don't discuss gerth at the Christmas dinner table?!) became wildly ridiculous because of the error!!
One final thanks needs to go out to my family members. Thanks to my siblings for taking control of arrangements and getting Mom and Dad through the ordeal, and thanks to Mom and Dad for having given me the chance to have a big brother like Todd...
Until we meet again, dear brother.
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Adrienne (Fitchett) Shillinglaw posted a condolence
Monday, December 21, 2015
Thank you all for your thoughts and memories, stories and condolences.
As I said at the Memorial Service, I welcome any thoughts, stories, memories, anecdotes that you would like to share about my brother Todd. Every new piece of the puzzle adds to a complete picture of Todd. You can share with us at my email-- adriennels@live.com, or on my facebook page, in addition to the fantastic pages here at the Wagg Funeral Home site.
I am glad to have had the chance to reconnect with everyone today, and I look forward to more sharing in the days to come. Todd always loved to jump into a conversation with "Do you remember when...." and now it's our turn :)
Adrienne
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Johnny and Dian Niles posted a condolence
Monday, December 21, 2015
Me and Dian only knew Todd for a short time but he was a true friend and we will miss him. Todd lived in the front of our condo and we would always see him in the window and he would always wave and say hi. He always lived his life to the fullest and I would drive him around if he needed a lift. Todd was great to talk to and he made a mean burger on his cherished barbecue . We keep looking up as we drive by thinking he is in that window looking down . I put a wreath on your door for Christmas Todd. Can't believe your gone friend . Feel so bad for your family and parents Todd who will miss you greatly. Until we meet again buddy . Love from your friends Dian and John x
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Dona Lei Fitchett lit a candle
Monday, December 21, 2015
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Gary, Marilyn, Adrien, Paul and Amy
There are no words for your loss.
From the bottom of my broken heart I send my sympathy for the loss of my nephew, your son and brother.
He is with Uncle Rick and Uncle Terry and we can take some comfort in the fact they will look after him.
Love you all
Dona Lei
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Lee-Anne Kovacs donated to THE HOSPITAL FOR SICK CHILDREN FOUNDATION
Monday, December 21, 2015
In memory of Todd Fitchett - our thoughts are with Paul and Kathleen Fitchett today and always.
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Tonya Ballard posted a condolence
Monday, December 21, 2015
Gary, Marilyn, Adrienne, Paul & Amy: I was so sorry to hear of Todd's passing. I have many memories of Todd growing up together on Ambleside. My most heartfelt condolences.
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Blythe Firman posted a condolence
Monday, December 21, 2015
May God be with you all as you go through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Blythe and Mike
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Tim Fletcher posted a condolence
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Our prayers go out to your whole family. Todd was a true friend,helper,and brother to me. He has left lasting memories with so many people,and has made me a better man today for having shared part of his life with me. Thank you Marilyn and Gary for bringing Todd into this world.
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Sandra Graham posted a condolence
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Adrienne and Family: We are so sorry to read of the sudden passing of your Brother. Please accept our sincere sympathy to all at this sad time.
Sincerely, Sandra & Bill Graham and Family
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Keven Morley and Edna Pappin posted a condolence
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Dear Marilyn, Gary and family ... We are shocked and saddened at the news of Todd's passing. We have many special memories of Todd from a little boy to a grown man. His love of life, family, nature and pets; his friendliness, sense of humour and ability to make you laugh. He was a great conversationalist. Remembering, in particular, his art-work which was amazing. Todd was one of a kind and loved by his family and friends; he will be sorely missed. Our sincere condolences.
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Megan Brooks (Ballard) posted a condolence
Friday, December 18, 2015
My sincerest condolences Gary & Marilyn. I remember growing up with Todd on Ambleside, the walks to the bus stop and his birthday parties. Rest in peace Todd.
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Jean O"Grady posted a condolence
Friday, December 18, 2015
Marilyn and Gary, I am so sorry to hear of your loss - the worst that could befall a parent. I know how dearly you have cherished Todd and helped him with his rehabilitation. My deepest sympathy.
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Beverley todd Burgess posted a condolence
Friday, December 18, 2015
Rest in peace my friend I met you 10 years ago driving cab you were a blast having around you are the only customer I knew who always hit some beer for the trip home rest in peace my friend
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Mike and Shelagh Marzouk, 77 Ambleside posted a condolence
Friday, December 18, 2015
We were saddened to hear of the loss of your son Todd. Please accept our sincere sympathy at this difficult time. We remember meeting him on his many walks along Ambleside and our frequent talks about cats and the neighbourhood.
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Krista Henry posted a condolence
Friday, December 18, 2015
I did not know Todd personally but he made a point of walking past our house pretty much every day to play with our dog. We would know he was coming up the street as Maggie would run to the garage to grab her ring so that he could toss it for her. She had a special bark for him and if my daughter heard it, she would remark "Maggie's friend must be here!". I think it was a time that both looked forward to each day. My sincerest condolences to the family.
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Dorothy McAnally posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
With my very deepest sympathy. Dorothy McAnally
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Suzie Ross (Allin) posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
My childhood memories cannot be separated from my memories of Todd. I grew up down the street from Todd. He was always very kind to me. I was more quiet and younger than Todd and several others who lived on our street but that never stopped Todd from helping me to collect the most chestnuts from the tree at the bus stop each year when it they began to fall! Thank you Todd :D My thoughts are with Todd's family.
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Blake and Marlene Reid posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Sorry to hear about Todd today . We picture Todd riding his bike through the forest with a very huge grin , happy and content with all of nature around him. We liked Todd for his uniqueness and his kindness . He always made us laugh which is a great quality he had . Please accept our condolences .
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Paul Fitchett uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, December 17, 2015
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Perhaps this early days canoe ride with Grandpa Moore helped ignite Todd's love of canoeing! (at home on Scugog Island, Port Perry, along the shores of Lake Scugog)
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Paul Fitchett uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, December 17, 2015
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Todd (right) and Paul (brother) - early days of how many a weekend was spent cutting and stacking fire wood from the farm.
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Rick, Debbie and Zechariah Chappell posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Todd was a kind and helpful neighbour. He never left you struggling at a task without lending a hand. He worked hard around the family home. Todd loved animals, especially his cats. There were many times he enjoyed exercising our black lab, Shadow, who would slip across the swale between our homes to greet Todd. Todd was always up for a good chat about anything, and always inquired about how everyone was doing. He loved the outdoors, and we often heard him strumming his guitar and singing around the campfire by the shore. We are saddened at the news of his passing. Our deepest sympathies go out to his parents and the family.
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Lesley Allin posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Todd grew up on our street with our children.My fondest memory was Todd walking from the bus stop playing the saxophone with all the cows in the field following.I will miss talking with Todd on the road. He was hilarious and always made me laugh. My condolelences to all the family. So sorry we will be away for the celebration of life.
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Sarah Morris posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
I was sad to hear about Todd. My sincere condolences go out to all of Todd's family and friends. May the loving memories you have of Todd provide some comfort. I did not know Todd very well at all but have vivid memories of Todd from primary school. May Todd rest in peace.
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Barbara McEwan donated to THE HOSPITAL FOR SICK CHILDREN FOUNDATION
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Our deepest sympathy to the Fitchett family. Our thoughts are with you. Barb & Jamie McEwan
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Doug & Danielle Anthony posted a condolence
Thursday, December 17, 2015
So Sorry to hear about Todd...Our deepest sympathy to the family...Prayers for Todd & the family...Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.....Love leaves a memory no one can steal...God Bless you all...
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Julie Blaney posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
As a fellow neighbour on your street our hearts go out to your family on the loss of your son. We shared many a smile and a wave when I was out wirh my dog and Todd was out walking.
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Meredith Muscat (nee Allin) posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
I was so shocked and saddened to hear about Todd. From our childhood memories growing up as neighbourhood kids to now keeping us up to date on your life through occasional chats, Todd was always Todd and that's what endured us to him. Mr and Mrs Fitchett, Adrienne, Paul and Amy you have our deepest condolences; he will be missed.
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Darleen posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
I never hung out with Todd but i knew him while hanging out with sister Adrienne they lived down the road from us. May Todd RIP HE was a great boy sorry for his loss and his parents and Adrienne. and family :(
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heather lively nee free posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
I am so so very sorry of your lose of your son, brother uncle,, thinking of your family at this time,,heather
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Heather (Boyd) Butt posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
The words are stuck in my heart and I am only able to send my love at this difficult time.
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Chantele Fulford posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
I didn't keep in touch with Todd which was a sad thing...but he was so awesome to me in school...his humor and smile..will be sorely missed...my thoughts are with the family....