Our Founder

Fred was a great leader and dear friend. This season we say goodbye to Fred Larsen, a man who changed the course of our organization and our personal lives. His wisdom, curiosity, and fierce commitment to the community and each individual he worked with will continue to impact our daily work for years to come. Fred served as Chair from 2015 - 2025, and continued as a Director of the Board until his passing on August 31, 2026. Fred approached every challenge with a sharp open mind, integrity, and warm smile. He was an eloquent ambassador for artists and youth to the end, and his positivity and encouragement were felt wherever he went. We are lucky to have known Fred and will hold his legacy close to our hearts. Our love and support are with his family, Lois, Chris, and Joey Larsen.

 

Fred was a retired English teacher and department head for the Simcoe County District School Board. He was president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation twice during his teaching career. Fred’s lifelong dedication to education and learning was evident in his community work. In 2006 Fred was a member of the Orillia Mayor’s Task Force whose work brought Lakehead University to Orillia. He is the former president of the Kiwanis Club of Orillia and of the Orillia Vocal Ensemble, a community choir. He has recently taken up the volunteer role of Treasurer for Sustainable Orillia, a Mayor’s Task Force. He and his wife Lois live in Oro-Medonte.