KAWARTHA LAKES- The community of Fenelon Falls is reeling after a popular business owner unexpectedly passed away on Saturday.
Randy Meredith, Owner of Grr8 Finds Market passed away on Saturday.
“Our community lost one of its pillars yesterday,” said a post on the company’s Facebook page today. “There is no possible way to replace someone so magical and unique, but we can do our part as a community to keep his courage and enthusiasm present for all who may need it.”
Randy owned the antique store on Colborne Street for 13 years. He was a proud, gay man living in a small community and helping others find their way.
“He lived his truth so loudly, it made it safe for anyone and everyone else to do the same.” stated friend and employee Rylee “I was lucky enough to learn this community under his wing and side by side. I wouldn’t know any of you the way that I do without him. Every love I’ve found in this tiny town, and they are plentiful, was because of him.”
Rylee says his heart was almost as enormous as his wardrobe. Randy was well known for his Wacky Wednesday outfits which ranged from homemade duct tape pants, to flamboyant leopard print suits to costumes. You never knew what he would be wearing on Wednesday.

When Randy didn’t show up to open the shop on Saturday police were called to his home.
The more than 600 comments of condolence on Facebook are a testament to the love the community had for him. Read them all here:https://www.facebook.com/grr8findsmarket
“Randy was such a beautiful light of love in our community. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and anyone that had the honour to know him. You left our world a better place simply by being you, xoxo, love you my dear friend. “said Natasha Clements Booth.
“I never had the pleasure of meeting him but absolutely loved seeing all his outfits on here! I’m so sorry for your loss and everyone near and dear to him. You are all in our thoughts.” stated Jennii La.Â
“I am so sad…what a tremendous loss! “RIP Randy. You will be so terribly missed! We will continue to shop at Grr8finds market however I’m not sure I will be able to do it without crying. You were a very special person, that is for sure! said Cathy Challice.
Lorie Newman said “Such sad news…Randy was so large in our community…he will be missed by all that knew him…my thoughts and prayers are with his family…xo”
The store is closed until further notice. No funeral arrangements have been announced.
“I hope we can all be a bit more silly, fun and free, having known him and let that be his place in all of our lives, forever. How lucky are we to have loved someone so wonderful.” Rylee said.
RIP Randy. Our condolences to friends and family.