Tony Fry: the real deal

Editor:

The term “influencer” has become one the most over-used and diluted words of the decade. Those that have grown up not knowing what life was like before the internet or social media think of that to mean a public figure on one of the many platforms that is selling you something: a lifestyle, a philosophy, or some other superficial thing they make you think you need. Recently, Creemore lost a “real” influencer. A genuine soul who needed no reward of attention or product sales, whose only agenda was to influence the youth of our beautiful community in way that could lead them to the path of success.

Tony Fry was that soul. A man who shared his love of life and put his endless energy into shaping our future – our children. I speak from my own perspective of how Tony engaged with my three children, who have all grown up in Creemore and worked for Ray’s Place. I’m so proud of whothey have become as adults and I truly believe that growing up in this little village and being mentored by Tony had a significant impact on who they are today. In particular my youngest, Duncan, who Tony continued to mentor into adulthood. They continued a friendship/mentorship relationship till the end. I am sure that many young adults will remember how Tony and the staff of Ray’s Place helped them get through high school, make new friends, and develop a positive attitude and work ethic.

Tony and his lovely wife Catherine were also very supportive of me and my art career. They would always make a point of attending exhibits when they could and stopping on the street to chat and ask how the kids were doing.

Thank you Tony, you will be greatly missed by our family and this community. Rest in peace.

Sue A. Miller,

Creemore.