Andrew Ford Douglas Furneaux
January 9, 1986 to July 2, 2019
Obituary
It is with a sea of devastation that we share the passing of Andrew Ford Douglas Furneaux on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019. Dearly loved and larger than life son of Guy and Annette, cherished only brother to Nicholas (Erin Austin). Broken hearted are his fiercely devoted grandparents, with unmatched steadfastness, Douglas and Trudy Furneaux of St. John’s; Ford and Anne French (deceased). Uncle Jeff and Aunt Betty Furneaux of Victoria, BC; Aunt Karen Furneaux and Uncle Jerry Baird of St. John’s; Aunt Carol Shields (Paul Leblanc) of St. John’s; and Aunt Hey (Heather) French of St. John’s; treasured cousins Jeffery Furneaux (Heather Neale) of Victoria, BC and their precious girls, Malia, Audrey, Halle and Shea. John Furneaux (Lesley Weeks) of Squamish, BC and their sweet Nash and Piper; Heather Furneaux of Victoria, BC; Erin Hunter (Adam) and beautiful Victoria of Victoria BC; Josh Furneaux, Victoria, BC; James Furneaux of St. John’s; Alexia Williams (Hank Williams) and “Mak” Makenzie Giles of CBS; Brad Shields (Kerry Murrin) and darlings, Charley and Jordyn, of Halifax, NS.
He also leaves to mourn dearest friends Steve and Kayla Daley of St. John’s, and their awesome twins, Harrison and Charlotte, to which Andrew was the proudest Godfather and Mentor. They will miss their third musketeer, fondly known to them as Ford, and cherish memories of Saturday nights spent together, great conversations, and their group travels.
His friends and coworkers at Service NL who he valued so much, were so kind and supportive with their many acts of kindness and numerous visits. A wide circle of loyal friends, lifelong and new, whose outpouring of love is beyond words. His Masonic Brothers of Lodge St. Andrew and Royal Oak Loyal Orange Lodge who simply wrapped their arms around him and provided a road of friendship he fully embraced and his fellow Nobles of the St. John’s Shrine Club. Andrew will be remembered particularly by his many “Tory Blue” friends, though his love of community, respect and willingness to work together afforded him friendships of different political stripes.
Andrew enjoyed many fun times at Rainbow Riders in his younger years, this valuable program provided social, emotional and physical skills along with friendships that stayed with him his entire life.
Andrew has been reunited with his precious Gabby and will be missed by Rosie and Guinness, his four legged friends.
Andrew was 33, taken from us at such a young age. He loved life and everything it had to offer. He was a College (CNA Computer Support Specialist) and University Graduate (MUN Bachelor of Arts, Political Science) and an avid learner. At an early age Andrew’s love of Technology, Travel and Politics became very apparent – his many trips throughout parts of this globe brought him such joy, independence and diverse friendships, plus an appreciation for good food and a fine pint of beer. Political campaigns, Municipal, Provincial or Federal, were never far from his gaze or participation, his appetite initially fueled from his days in Youth Parliament and as a House of Assembly Page.
Andrew lived with Neurofibromatosis (NF1). 1 in 3000 people are affected and approximately 175 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians live with this condition, though little is known of it by most. To put this in perspective, 1 in 3600 live with Cystic Fibrosis, 1 in 3500 with Muscular Dystrophy. Andrew took the challenge head on as he did with all things, undertaking his own pursuits for knowledge and assistance. With continued research led by Dr. Raymond Kim of UHN, Toronto, of which Andrew is part, hopefully future generations can live with less challenges.
Much appreciation goes to Dr. Roger Avery and Dr. Oliver Holmes in St. John’s who were always available, and for the loving care provided by the Nurses at 4NB and 5SB HSC; Dr. Barnett-Tapia NF Clinic, Toronto General Hospital; Dr. Abha Gupta and her team at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto where he recently travelled for care.
Visitation at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Thursday, July 4th and Friday, July 5th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Service to follow at Wesley United Church at 10am on Saturday, July 6th. Flowers gratefully accepted or donations in Andrew’s memory may be made to Rainbow Riders (www.rainbowridersnl.com) or Lodge St. Andrew (www.freemasonry.nf.ca).
Andrew, pleasant journeys.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on July 4, 2019
7-9 p.m. on July 4, 2019
2-4 p.m. on July 5, 2019
7-9 p.m. on July 5, 2019
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
10:00am, Saturday July 6th
Wesley United Church
Burial at the Anglican Cemetery, Forest Road
My heartfelt condolences to Andrew’s family. I’m so sorry for your loss! I had no idea Andrew passed away and I’m shocked to say the least. I just realized this as I saw the obituary for his grandfather.
I knew Andrew when he was at MUN. My office is located on campus and we had some great conversations. We kept in touch after he finished post-secondary when he worked with government. Andrew was a gentleman, always had a story to tell and he really enjoyed life.
Andrew will always hold a special place in my heart. We can only hope as we go through life that, when we’re called home, we leave an idelible mark on this world. Andrew did just that.
Matthew 25:23 “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
I heard about Andrew’s passing recently and I was shocked. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. I knew Andrew when we both worked at The Muse in Memorial University way back in 2011. He was always a laugh to be around; a true gentleman. Rest easy, Andrew.
Guy and Annette, I just learned of Andrews passing as I am out of the province. Sending sincerest condolences on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Richard and I were saddened by the passing of Andrew. Few had his courage and will. He will be missed by his American family. Love always Richard and Lee
Andrew was in my classes at MacDonald Drive Junior High in the late ‘90s. He was so proud to be a member of Rainbow Riders. Every year he would remind me to buy a ‘Smile Cookie’ at Tim Hortons to support this great program. I can remember Andrew checking, “Mrs. March, did you buy your ‘Smile Cookie’ yet?”
I always did and I have continued to do so ever since. Because every year when ‘Smile Cookies’ appear, Andrew comes to mind and I smile.
A wonderfully unforgettable person who accomplished so much.
Aunt Trudy and Uncle Doug: We were so sorry to hear of Andrew’s passing, and so sorry that we were out of town and could not attend his service. He certainly left his mark for such a young man, and you must be very proud of him and his accomplishments. Sending our heartfelt condolences to you and all the family at this time. May Andrew rest in peace and fly with the angels.
We have memories of Andrew ranging from growing up at Brinton to his excitment at seeing our daughter out trick or treating. He made any community he was a part of better just by being part of it .
Annette, Guy, Nick and family
We are so very saddened to hear of Andrew’s passing. Please accept our deepest condolences and know that you and your family/friends are in our thoughts and prayers. May all your loving memories of Andrew help keep you strong in these trying times.
Annette and families
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time on the passing of your son. May he Rest In Peace.
Charles and Margaret Thomas. Formerly of Carbonear. Now living in OromoctoNB
WE have fond memories of Andrew as a young boy in elementary school . Even though he passed on way too young. He certainly grew into a young man who contributed greatly to community and will be greatly missed. Sending condolences on behalf of the Schofield Family
On behalf of The Rock Electrical 50+Softball team I would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Andrew . Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time .
There are no words I can say to help ease your pain. Everything I have read show that he was a fine young man.. My sincere sympathies. Hugs
Thinking of you and extending our heartfelt sympathy at this very sad and difficult time.
Barry & Glenda Wilkins
My deepest sympathies to Andrew’s family and friends. I got to know Andrew through The Coalition of Persons with Disabilities. As a board member, Andrew was always available to help staff with IT questions and contribute to board work in many ways. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends and also by the community that benefitted from his work, his perspective, his determination and his very presence.
My deepest sympathies to Andrew’s Family and Friends. I attended Gonzaga and volunteered at Rainbow Riders with Andrew, where I got to know his kindhearted nature and love of animals. Years later we met by chance in London, while we were each traveling around the UK. He told me of all the fantastic places he was planning to visit on his travels in Europe. He lived life to the fullest, all while being a truly genuine soul.
Very sorry to hear that you have passed away. It was always a pleasure to pick you up on the GoBus. Rest easy
Annette and family,
So very sorry to hear of Andrew’s passing. You are in my thoughts. and have my deepest condolences.
Richard Bruce
My deepest sympathies to the Furneaux family. I know Andrew through my work at Student Life at Memorial. Unoversity. Andrew was a lovely soul – kind, loyal, determined, and hard working. I know he will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I only knew Andrew for a short period time but I remember him with fondness as he was such a kind and talented young man who always acknowledged you with a genuine smile. He had a heart of gold and he has certainly left an indelible mark on all who knew him. My condolences to all his family who made Andrew the speciaI. individual he was and I am sure he is only a breath. away. God bless you all during this difficult time.
My deepest condolences to the Furneaux family.
I’ve had the great honour and pleasure of knowing Andrew since he became a valued colleague at Service NL. Andrew leaves behind a big legacy in the work he performed (in preserving historical archival records that will be used for generations to come) as well as the valued relationships he built with all staff. Andrew and I had a shared interest in travel and I will fondly miss our conversations of exploring various parts of the world.
Andrew – until our travelling spirits meet again my friend…
Guy, Annette and Nick,
I am sorry to hear of Andrew’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Annette and Family:
So sorry to hear of your son’s passing, I am thinking about you and I hope that your memories may give you the strength you need in the days ahead,
My heart is so with you right now, Annette and Guy, for the loss of your beautiful, remarkable boy. Your son’s exceptional life was due in no small part, I’m sure – to his amazing, supportive parents???? Andrew inspired me, among many others. I hope you lean into the Lord’s comfort at all times. My friends may we always be there for each other in our grief journeys – one day at a time. much love, Donna Squires
Guy and Annette, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your son Andrew..
I hope you take courage knowing he was well loved by you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Heartfelt condolences to Guy, Annette, Nick, Jay and the whole Furneaux family. Andrew was the most lovely, kind individual and he will be missed!
Having lived away from NL for many years, I regularly check for news from my beloved St. John’s. It is heartbreaking to read the obituary of the son of a former schoolmate. What a fine young man! Please know that I am thinking of your family during this time. Take care.
Annette and family, I was so saddened to hear about Andrews passing. He lived a full. Rich, loving life surrounded by his family and friends and packed more lie in than most. Take comfort in your sweet memories.
To Andrews Family & Friends and all who grieve this amazing human being, my sincere condolences. I knew Andrew for just a short time and feel blessed that I had the pleasure of Working along side him at Queens Printer. Andrew always had a smile on his face and a kind word to say and he brightened my days. We soon discovered we were connected through family and friends and our love and compassion for animals. Andrew was so helpful at work and I’ve missed him so. I still have his email instructions to access various programs on my computer and i’ll think of him every time I use those programs 🙁 I’m happy I had the chance to see him before he said goodbye to this world, being a friend to Andrew is effortless, he’s remarkable. Until we meet again my friend <3
"Some people come into our lives and quickly go, others stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same" Author Unknown
Annette, Guy, Nicholas and Family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Andrew. You will be in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Annette,Guy, Nicholas and family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Andrew. You will be in our thoughts during this very difficult time.
To Guy, Annette and Nicholas so sorry to hear of Andrews passing our heartfelt condolences to you at this difficult time .
Annette, Guy, Nicholas and family,
Our sincere condolences to you on the loss of Andrew. We are thinking about you at this difficult time.
To Annette & Family, So sorry to hear of your loss.
Our sincere sympathies from everyone at CBS Kiwanis Minor Baseball Association.
Forever loved‼️❤️????
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Furneaux family. I was one of Andrew’s instructors when he completed the Computer Support Specialist program at College of the North Atlantic. Andrew faced every challenge given to him head on and always had that mischievous grin. I’ve kept in touch with him over the years and followed his travels and accomplishments. I will surely miss the presence of a truly loveable and kind person.
To Andrew’s family & friends:
My sincerest condolences to you on Andrew’s passing..
Thinking of you all during this most difficult time.
Cindy ( fellow GoBus rider).
Guy, Annette and the Furneaux Family . Our sincere condolences on Andrew’s passing. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Brian and Barb Scaplen
Our Deepest Sympathy to all of Andrew’s family. I remember Andrew as a kind, well mannered and sweet boy at Brinton Memorial School where I was the Secretary. May He Rest In Peace!!
To Guy, Annette & Nicholas. Condolences and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Andrew was an inspiration to all those who knew him. From the time he entered my Robotics class in grade 10 at Gonzaga I knew we would hit it off. He was a determined young man and no matter what the challange he always gave it his all. I got to know Andrew even better when he joined the Eastern Edge Robotics Program. He was a team member for many years. He travelled with the team to several competitions in the U.S. He was my navigator in the team van for many of those trips. We became very good friends over the years. I always enjoyed meeting Andrew whenever I returned to NL for a visit. We would head to the Duke for a beer and a feed of fish & chips. I feel very lucky to have known Andrew. Rest in peace my friend.
Tom and Ruth Donovan (Calgary)
Annette, Guy & Nicholas & Family…
Please accept our sincere condolences on Andrew’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dominic & Sharon Wall
It is very sad to hear of Andrew’s passing. Everyone here in the Political Science Department at Memorial has fond memories of him. He was always so keenly engaged in his courses and in Newfoundland public life in general. He was also one of the kindest people you could hope to meet. We will miss him.
Annette, Guy and Nicholas and the Furneaux family so sorry to hear of Andrew’s passing. We remember when Andrew and Nicholas were little boys and they would knock on our cabin door and come in for a visit. Andrew always had a great smile and he loved to have a chat, we will always remember him. We send our sincere condolences to your family, hold onto your many wonderful memories of Andrew and hopefully they will give you peace and love during this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are going out to all of you.
I got to know Andrew when we volunteered together with the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities (COD). I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences are extended to his family and friends.
I am saddened to learn about Andrew’s death. I remember him as a little boy at St. Pius X School.
His eyes were bright with enthusiasm and he was always eager to participate and learn. He was respectful to and well accepted by his peers. Those who knew him were enriched and now have cherished memories. We all share his loss.
Wayne Barry
Andrew had such a lovely, genuine soul. Even though we hadn’t spoken in quite some time, I will always remember this about him. Cherish your memories and hold them close to your heart.
I knew Andrew only through my capacity as Manager of Newfound Cabs, and previous to that as a driver when I drove GoBus passengers of which Andrew was a frequent passenger. Andrew was a very educated young man and we had many wonderful conversations about a myriad of topics, politics being the most common one, and not necessarily agreeing on anything (!) but always a rollicking, healthy discussion.
I personally will miss those conversations.
On behalf of the drivers and staff of Newfound Cabs I offer our sincerest condolences and prayers to his family.
Annette & Guy, So sorry for your loss. Thinking about you and your family during this very difficult time.
I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to Andrew’s family on their loss. Andrew and I enjoyed talking about politics and current events whenever we were together. He always took a keen interest in the issues affecting our province and its people. Andrew was a selfless person who was always willing to help others. It was a pleasure to have known him and to call him my friend. I will miss him dearly.
We had the privilege of knowing Andrew through his involvement in both the high school and post secondary robotics program. He was an eager and enthusiastic participant in all events. Andrew always had that winning, mischievous smile. He travelled with the team to many international competitions entertaining us all with his wit and charm.
We extend our sincere condolences to family and friends as you go through this tremendous loss.
Dwight and Diane Howse
So sad to learn of Andrew’s passing, I worked with him briefly at Service NL the Commercial Registry. Sending my sincere condolences to his family and his friends and work colleagues.
I was so saddened to hear of Andrew’s passing. I often chatted with Andrew when I was teaching at Gonzaga High School. Andrew was friendly, engaging and always made time for others. He had such a winning smile! take comfort in your memories of a beautiful person who touched so many lives!
I had the pleasure of both working with Andrew through Service NL and once I moved on in my career, I had the pleasure of being his friend. Andrew took the time to keep in touch, meet for coffee and was always concerned about how I was doing. He was a selfless man, who has touched many lives, including mine. He had a kind heart, and was especially kind towards my son who is on the Autism Spectrum.
My sincere condolences to his family. To his parents – you have raised Andrew to be such a strong and considerate person. It was a pleasure to get to know him both professionally and personally. Rest well my friend and I am sure Gabby is with you giving you lots of love and affection.
My sincere condolences to you all during this heartbreaking and difficult time. I had the pleasure of working with Andrew at a Service NL, and reiterate everything my coworkers have said in these messages. Andrew was so dedicated to his work and he was such a big presence in our office. Always taking the time to stop in and have a chat. Between his involvement in the community and his travels, Andrew lead such an interesting life. I can assure you he will be missed by many. To his parents, be proud knowing you raised such a polite, caring, positive and sincere man. Rest easy Andrew.
Life can be so cruel sometimes.. That’s why it’s important to tell the people you love how much they mean to you.. I can’t even begin to imagine the heartbreak you must all be suffering right now., Andrew was a very special young man with a wisdom and strength of character that was way beyond his tender years.. His gentle way, his kindness and positive attitude, even in the face of incredible pain was a sight to behold and marvel at. His genuine gratitude for the smallest acts of kindness shown to him by others, despite what he was going through,, was awe-inspiring.
There are countless broken hearts with Andrew’s passing, but the world truly is a better place for having been graced with the gift of his love. He leaves an incredible legacy for one so young.
Wishing all of you, much love and continued strength .
I was so saddened and left with disbelief when news came upon me of Andrews passing. I had the pleasure of conversing with him at the Masonic lodge on several occasions. A fine gentleman in spirit and soul .
What is additionally sad was that I have just learned that Andrew was the son of a dear high-school classmate Annette French Furneaux. Many heart felt condolences Annette to you and your family . Andrew will never be far from your heart and soul as his spirit surly will be treasured by all of us that knew him.
Guy, Annette and Nicholas I am so sorry to hear about Andrew. Know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I knew Andrew as a student at Gonzaga as I taught there in special services. He was a wonderful young man. May you be comforted by the fact that your son was so well regarded at our school and continued to bestow his goodness over the years as so eloquently said in the obituary. He was a son to be proud of.
I would like to offer my condolences to Andrew’s family. Andrew was an incredible person and an inspiration to anyone that knew him.
Dear Mr.and Mrs.Ferneaux,
I am SO devastated to see that Andrew has passed
He was such a sweet, sweet boy at Gonzaga HS. We always found time to have a chat about ‘the goin’s on’, whether it be a school topic or a world news item. He always enlightened me. Most recently, I met him in Toronto airport. My husband and I were heading for Tampa, and he, Fort Myers. Again, we had a great chat but he was always interested in what I was doing, what my family were engaged in, etc A great man! And a gentle man!
I am so sorry for your great loss. He impacted my life as a teacher and friend
I will miss him dearly.
I will keep his heart in my heart ❤️
God bless
Korona Brophy ???? GHS
Condolences to the family of Brother Andrew on his passing. May the GGOTU be with you and your extended family. I did not know Andrew but to have such accolades heaped upon him, he must have been a great person.
God bless all of Andrews family as you carry on with your lives without him .What a special young man he truly was. Bill and I send our sincere expression of sympathy .
To the Furneaux Family I offer my sincere condolences on the untimely passing of your son, brother and grandson. Andrew was a true gentleman, always respectful and positive. We sat next to each other at work and many of our conversations where through the wall although sometimes his head would pop around the corner as he would say some conversations require eye contact! He had one of the best smiles I’ve ever seen and that was never more evident when he talked of his family. I will always remember one poignant conversation about his beloved Gabby and my Zeus. I picture Andrew on the Rainbow Bridge reunited with his beloved Gabby telling Zeus that I’m doing OK. Peace and Love to you all.
To Andrew’s family,
I remember Andrew as a fond friend and excellent speaker during my time as a Youth Parliamentarian with St. John’s Regional and Newfoundland Provincial Parliament. He had a keen sense of humor and a very sharp mind. Rest easy now my friend.
My condolences to the Furneaux/French families! I’m so sorry for your lose, he was one of the nicest most genuine people anyone could have the pleasure of meeting.
I’ll never forget the day I met Andrew at work. I was so taken back by his piercing blue eyes that i never even thought to introduce myself…instead I said “wow! You have the bluest eyes I’ve ever seen!” To which he gave a smile exactly as shown in the picture posted here. I’ve never met a kinder, more polite, considerate person. He always was thoughtful in everything he said and did, his laugh was contagious, and his love for his work was admirable. Our office is deeply saddened by this loss and will miss Andrew very much- but we are lucky to have had him as a coworker and friend. My sincerest condolences go out to his mom, dad and brother. I pray you take comfort in the many wonderful memories you have and the “life well lived.”