Calvin Martinson Pritchard

It is with broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Calvin Martinson Pritchard on Thursday, June 24, 2021 in St. Joseph's Hospice at the age of 76 years.

Calvin was born of September 25, 1944 in Montreal to Val and Violet Pritchard. On November 14, 1964 he married Eleanore McArthur. At the time he was a mechanic working at Larry's Texaco and Manper. He also worked as a heavy-duty mechanic for Abitibi Paper until 1991. For a time he also worked as a welder for an American firm underground.

Cal learned his trade of Gunsmith in the 1960's, from Ed Christie whom he apprenticed under. He started in his basement, and then built his shop in 1978. He worked there while going back and forth to Abitibi, finally “retiring” in 1991.

Cal knew everything about guns - “there's no room for error when you are working on someone's favourite rifle”. He was a professional at his trade, and he took pride in restoring, customizing, and repairing many firearms over the last 40 years.

Cal loved the bush and also ran a trapline for a number of years. He enjoyed hunting, especially moose and deer, and also fishing.

He is survived by Eleanore, his wife of 56 years; son Derrick and wife Karon; daughter Deanna (Brad Timko); and grandchildren Katrina and Daniel Mitas. Also surviving are his sister Valerie (Ken Lempiala); brother Glenn; sisters-in-law, Carol Pritchard, Loretta Cutbush, Janet Ross (Nipigon), Elaine and Ron Stuart (Calgary), Lorne and Ross McArthur (Brantford); numerous nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents, Val and Violet; brother Mike (March 2020) and his sister Pat (April 2021).

As per Calvin's wishes, there will be no formal service. Cremation has taken place, and the family will be having a private graveside service in Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in Cal's memory can be made to the Cancer Centre at TBRHSC, or the Canadian Diabetes Association. EVEREST FUNERAL CHAPEL, 299 Waverley Street at Algoma in care of arrangements.

The family would like to thank Drs. Migay and Davis; nurses Clara, Theresa, Holly, Victoria, and Ruth on 4North, and all the others who helped keep Cal comfortable.

He will be missed by his customers and friends – there is no other like him.

Please sign the Online Condolences at everestofthunderbay.com