Murray Wayne Collard

December 21, 1949 - November 11, 2024

Passed away suddenly at the age of 74, on Monday, November 11, 2024, at his home in Magnetawan, Ontario. Murray was born December 21, 1949, at Leamington Hospital, to the late Eunice and Lyle Collard.

Murray was the beloved husband and partner to Fay for 40 years. He was the cherished father to his four children: Rich Collard (Cindy), Tammy Zack (Darryl), Connie Waites (Todd), and David Freeland (Dawn). Murray was also the loving grandfather to Crystal Sisco (Riley), Nick Collard (Brittany), Merissa Bouillon (Andre), Kaily Mailhot (Will), Brandyn Waites (Regan), Shailyn Klemens (Joel), Ben and Will Freeland, and Reggie Mills. He was the proud great-grandfather to Laken and Haven Sisco, Braylynn and Nicholas Jr. Collard, Noah and Lauren Mailhot, Zack and Summer Bouillon, and Aria Waites.

He is survived by his siblings Raymond Collard (Linda), Larry Collard, Howard Collard (Marilyn), Wayne Collard (Lisa), Garry Collard, Brian Collard (Shelley), Diane Anthony (Bill), Butch Collard (Sue), Debrah Fisher (Kevin), and Melvin Collard. Murray was predeceased by siblings Gerald Collard, James Collard, and Ralph Collard.

In addition to his success as a fisherman, Murray achieved many prestigious recognitions during his career, including the Robert Graham Award and Fisherman of the Year. He served as a board member of The OCFA, The Wheatley Harbour Authority, and was an organizer of The Wheatley Fish Festival.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Opatovsky Funeral Home-Dempster Chapel in Burk’s Falls. A private burial ceremony will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Almaguin Community Hatchery Program, which was a significant part of Murray’s retirement. If desired, cheques can be sent to Almaguin Community Hatchery Program, Box 980, Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0, or an e-transfer can be sent to treasurer@almaguinhatchery.com.