Tribute Wall
Sunday
31
May
Celebration of Life
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Fredericton Inn
1315 Regent Street
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Words of Tribute
3:00 pm
Memorial Donations
At Randy’s request, instead of flowers, donations are encouraged to Camp Rotary; Opal Family Services; Transition House or charity of your choice.
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Doug Johnson posted a condolence
Monday, June 1, 2026
To all of Randy’s extended family —- my condolences
I worked with Randy in my job in NBDOT to improve transportation services for folks who had difficulties. We had success— sometimes small — sometimes big. We were the first I believe to start retrofitting vehicles for folks to drive or to transport children with unique challenges. I thought that we would get it where needed in a few years. I was wrong and I believe the Vehicle Retrofit Program still exists today. It was challenging but with great NB retrofitters much has been accomplished and other provinces have similar programs now.
Randy was great to work with —-persistent in all his interventions.
New Brunswick has lost a great citizen who did much to improve this great province.
This is a sad time..
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Danny Soucy uploaded photo(s)
Monday, June 1, 2026
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Our sincere condolences Karen and family.
When I learned of Randy's passing, I found myself reflecting on nearly 50 years of friendship, laughter, adventures, and memories.
I first met Randy in early June of 1978 when he interviewed me for a camp counsellor position at Camp Rotary. What started as a job interview quickly became a lifelong friendship. Over the years, Randy became my mentor, one of my closest friends and eventually stood beside me as the best man at my wedding.
One of the first things I learned about Randy was his generosity.
As Camp Director, he had an open-door policy—not because it was a management philosophy, but because he genuinely loved being around people. During our days off, a few of us would often spend time in Fredericton, and Randy would lend us the apartment he shared with his brother Stephen. Between camp sessions, many of us would gather there for what Randy called a "little social event." If you knew Randy, you know there was no such thing as a little social event.
Poor Stephen often found himself sharing his apartment with what felt like half the Camp Rotary staff. Whenever anyone questioned whether Stephen minded, Randy would simply say, "It's okay, he likes it."
To this day, I'm not sure Stephen was ever consulted on the matter.
But that was Randy. He loved bringing people together. He loved friendships. He loved community. He made room for people in his life, and people were always better for it.
Of course, life with Randy was never dull.
One evening we went to see Doug and the Slugs perform. We were huge fans. By the end of the night, Randy and I somehow found ourselves on stage singing with the band. To this day, I honestly don't remember receiving an invitation.
Eventually we made it back to my apartment. I went to the washroom and when I came out, Randy had disappeared.
I searched the apartment.
Nothing.
I checked outside.
Nothing.
The car was still in the parking lot, but Randy was nowhere to be found.
Eventually I gave up and went to bed.
The next morning, I got up and started my day when suddenly I heard a strange noise coming from a small hall closet above the staircase.
Naturally, I went to investigate.
I opened the door and out stepped the missing Randy.
Apparently, when I went to the washroom, he decided that the hall closet was the perfect place to spend the night or he passed out in it.
There he was, emerging from that closet as though this was the most normal thing in the world.
Now, before anyone starts drawing conclusions, I should point out that this was years before he met Karen.
Thankfully for Karen, I think he had mostly stopped sleeping in hall closets by then.
At least I hope so.
Another memory that has stayed with me for almost fifty years happened during that first summer at Camp Rotary.
As we were preparing for a new session of campers, Randy warned us about a young camper—we'll call her Esther—who had developed a reputation for delivering a very well-placed kick to the male counsellor’s groin.
Randy proudly informed us that despite all his years at camp, he was probably the only counsellor who had never fallen victim to Esther's surprise pranks.
Well, that streak came to an abrupt end that session.
I was standing on the chapel ramp when I saw Randy crossing the field. At the same moment, I noticed Esther charging toward him from behind.
As many of you know, Randy's famously bow-legged stance created what could only be described as an ideal target.
I yelled, "Randy! Look out!"
He looked at me with a puzzled expression and just waved as if I coming, hang on...
A split second later, Esther struck.
Randy briefly achieved human flight before landing face-first on the ground and rolling around in agony.
Meanwhile, I collapsed laughing. I shouldn't of but... it was funny
What I think bothered Randy most wasn't the pain. It was the fact that he could no longer claim to be the only counsellor Esther had never gotten.
For the rest of that session, he walked a little more carefully and seemed to keep one eye looking in every direction.
That story always makes me smile because it reminds me that Randy never took himself too seriously. He could laugh at himself, even when life occasionally knocked him flat.
And then there was Randy the debater.
Give Randy a topic and he could discuss it with anyone. In fact, once Randy got started, it sometimes seemed as though he had discovered a way to speak without stopping to breathe.
I often felt sorry for reporters interviewing him. They would carefully prepare a list of questions, ask the first one, and then sit back. Ten minutes later, Randy would still be answering, and they would be trying to remember what question number two was.
And then there was the word "no."
Actually, I should correct myself.
Randy didn't have the word "no" in his vocabulary. More accurately, he didn't have it in his auditory reception.
Whenever Randy heard the word "no," something happened.
He became curious.
He became determined.
And he usually launched into a thoughtful explanation about why that answer deserved to be reconsidered.
That persistence made him one of the most effective advocates I have ever known.
Randy was a champion of human rights, accessibility, inclusion, and dignity.
He believed deeply in people.
He believed every person deserved the opportunity to live a good life without barriers.
He believed that our communities and our governments could do the right thing if someone helped them see a better way.
And Randy was often that someone.
He challenged assumptions.
He questioned barriers.
He pushed for change.
Not because he enjoyed arguing, but because he cared. (but I think he also enjoyed arguing)
Many people whose lives have been improved through greater inclusion and accessibility may never know Randy's name, but they are benefiting from his work, his passion, and his determination.
There is one final story that perfectly captures another side of Randy.
Not long after my wedding, Randy approached me with a very important mission.
He wanted me to help him find a French girl to date.
For years, it became a running joke between us. Randy was convinced that somewhere out there was the French girl he was destined to marry.
Then one day he told me about someone named Karen.
Naturally, I assumed he had expanded his search to the Acadian Peninsula or perhaps Québec.
But not Randy.
He found someone all the way from Alberta.
He didn't find a French girl to date, what he found was something far better.
He found his best friend.
He found his partner.
He found the love of his life.
Karen, anyone who spent time around the two of you could see how much Randy loved you.
For all of his accomplishments, all of his advocacy, and all of his friendships, one of the greatest blessings of his life was finding you.
As I thought about Randy these past few weeks, I kept coming back to one of his favourite poems by Edgar Albert Guest, It Couldn't Be Done.
The truth is that Randy didn't just admire that poem.
He lived it.
Throughout his life, people told him that change couldn't happen, that barriers couldn't be removed, that inclusion couldn't work, and that society wasn't ready.
But Randy never accepted "it can't be done" as the final answer.
He listened.
He educated.
He advocated.
He persisted.
And more often than not, he proved that it could be done.
The final verse of that poem says:
"There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
There are thousands to prophesy failure,
There are thousands to point out to you one by one,
The dangers that wait to assail you.
But just buckle in with a bit of a grin,
Just take off your coat and go to it;
Just start in to sing as you tackle the thing
That 'cannot be done,' and you'll do it."
Those words describe Randy better than anything I could ever say.
He was generous.
He was loyal.
He was compassionate.
He was persistent (some would say stubborn).
He was courageous.
He was funny.
He was a defender of rights.
He was a builder of community.
He was a loving husband, a treasured friend, and an extraordinary human being.
Most of all, he believed in people.
And he believed that with a little encouragement, a little persistence, and yes, a little nudging, our society could become better.
Randy was that little nudge.
Thank you, Randy, for your friendship, your humour, your wisdom, your determination, and your unwavering belief in people.
The world is a kinder, fairer, and more inclusive place because you were here.
Rest easy, my friend. You've more than earned it.
Danny Soucy
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Amy,JP McDougall-Fraser posted a condolence
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Great online service well great send off xo Karen and Family and Friends xo all Stay Positive and Strong. Rest in Peace thx again Randy
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Glen Hughes posted a condolence
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Our sincere condolences to Karen and Randy’s family on behalf of Easter Seals New Brunswick. The involvement and support by Randy for Easter Seals New Brunswick and Camp Rotary has always been very much appreciated and will not be forgotten. Randy’s commitment to building a better community for all is a legacy to be proud of.
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Brenda Johnston Sansom posted a condolence
Thursday, May 28, 2026
You could always count on Randy. He was relentless in his advocacy for others and he caused the rest of us to "get in line." My most recent time with Randy was with the Liberal Party of New Brunswick and it became apparent he had an amazing political mind and did not hesitate to share his thoughts and feelings. Since my dad was in a wheelchair, I took great comfort knowing Randy was there advocating for everyone in New Brunswick and although we will miss him, his accomplishments will remain forever. He will be missed by many more than just his family.
I extend my heartfelt sympathy to Karen and the family
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Clarence & Oliva Bastarache posted a condolence
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Our sincere condolences to Karen and the families ! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Randy was a special person advocating and working for the benefits of the disabled. I met Randy and Karen through
Wheelchair sports. He and Karen were always generous helping the needy and the community in general . I was saddened by
his passing and will miss the close relation I had with the him and Karen. Rest in peace my friend.
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Kathy LeBlanc posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
Karen and family, our deepest sympathies to you all. I remember meeting Randy from SCCR when we working together Karen. I admired both of you and your dedication to physically challenged individuals. You both made a difference for wheelchair access. Big hugs to you!
Kathy & Ray
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Susan Rouse posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
Dear Wendy and Lyse - Gary and I were saddened to learn of Randy’s death. He certainly leaves an impressive legacy of which his family can be very proud. Please accept our sincere condolences. Gary and Susan Rouse
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David Dobson posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
A true gentleman, I did a lot of buisness with Randy and Karen over the years truly enjoyed our conversations and his perspectives.
Karen @ family may your memories give you peace.
Dave Dobson
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Roland Beaulieu posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
My deepest condolences to Karen, the family, and Randy's numerous friends and admirers. Rest In Peace, Randy!
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Vicki Mullin posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
We are so very sorry for your family’s loss. Over the last year with the passing of my Dad, Randy was able to give me advice before and after his death. Randy also sponsored me in the Walk & Roll for Muscular Dystrophy Saint John every year. Rest now Randy.
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Chris and Louise Grady posted a condolence
Friday, May 22, 2026
RIP Randy.
You are and you will be missed.
My condolences to Karen, family and friends.
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Pam Fulton posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Karen, I have just learned of Randy's passing and although I didn't know him, his achievements speak volumes: a worthy Pied Piper. Sincerest condolences from your colleague from the early '90s, Pam Fulton.
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Susanne Hansen posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Sending deep condolences to Randy's family. I grew up.in Upper Woostock and went to school with many of yhe Dickinsons. With 8 grades (about 50 kids) in two rooms we were a close community. I have followed Ranys career over the years
He made us proud. To all his family, friends and colleagues my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susanne Hansen
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Bob Coakley posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Sending condolences to Karen and Randy's family.. Randy worked on so many important issues it is hard to write about only one. My biggest memory is how Randy encouraged the NB government to include, for the first time in Canada, an event for wheelchair racers in the 1985 Canada Games in Saint John, as a way to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in major events. This event is one of the reasons that the Olympics and the Paralympics are now promoted equally in the media.
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Karen & Lloyd MacFarlane posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Karen, we were so very sorry to hear of Randy’s passing. It wasn’t that long ago that he waved from the van heading up the street.
He was a blessing to so many. We offer our sincere condolences to you and all the family.
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Pauline Michaud and Bill Hunter posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
I wish to express our sincerest condolences to Karen and Randy's family and friends. My thoughts are with you at this time. Randy was one of the greats! I had the pleasure of working with him and am truly grateful for that opportunity - he was truly inspiring. We were all blessed to have had the opportunity to know such a great man.
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Paul & Liz McDonnell posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
We send our condolences to Karen and all the family. We can’t imagine a Fredericton without Randy’s energy and presence. Everywhere we went we would encounter Randy out on a mission of some kind. For us, Randy was the epitome of what community engagement means. We have always been inspired by his myriad achievements and dedication to all those in our community who needed a lift. His memory and contributions will be well kept in our hearts. Paul & Liz McDonnell
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Cheryl and Ryan posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
My deepest sympathy. I met Randy through Premier's Council and he was simply an amazing person. He advocated a lot for our children who has a disability and we appreciate this so much. Sending hugs xox
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Lise Frenette-Richards posted a condolence
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Karen, I am so sad to hear of Randy's passing. He was a wonderful, caring, gentle soul who with his calm voice and strong resolve bettered the lives of I'm sure hundreds of thousands of not only new-brunswickers but canadians also. I always looked forward to hearing his take on issues we faced on council and knew that he was a beacon we could follow. My heart goes out to you in this difficult time. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.
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Linda & Bill Coombes posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Our deepest condolences to you Wendy and the whole Family. May your memories of Randy give you all comfort in this painful time.
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Toni O'Brien posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Sending our condolences to you, Karen, Wendy and the larger Dickenson family. Long will live the fruits of Randy's advocacy for persons living with disabilities.
We first met Randy when he came to our home in Boiestown in the late 1980's as an advocate for a preschool in the area so that our son and another child in the community could have opportunity to play and learn with their non-disabled peers before they became school aged children. Randy's leadership was a solid driving force and while it took the combined efforts of a team, that dream was actualized and the benefits of that program were beautiful to see.
Pat and Toni O'Brien
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Deb McDonald posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I remember the first time I met Randy and knew that he was a man who lived his values. Randy didn’t just talk about commitment to care in our community - he put action in front of and behind his words. I will miss his presence … I will miss his care —- Randy said it well … Adapt -Improvise- Overcome
My prayers are with his wife … his family and our community.
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Dennis Taylor posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Karen, so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. It wasn't that long ago that I observed him driving up and down the street in his van. I will miss him as a neighbour, and so very much enjoyed working with him on the City's Age Friendly Committee. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Dennis T
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Hoyt Hallett Bonny posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I had the privilege of knowing Randy through his various roles during my work in government . A very dedicated advocate for accessibility and was a delight to converse with on many occasions . He has left a legacy which will go on . He may not be a physical
Presence in NB now but he sure will continue to be a presence in many a discussion . Gone to soon but oh did he make a difference .
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Brent MacPherson posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I was deeply sorry to hear that Randy was ill and very saddened on his passing. He lived a big life and to help so many that needed him. My condolences deeply for Karen and his whole family plus his friends. I first met Randy when he worked for human rights and then while on the premiers Council status of disabled persons for 3 years and he was the chair. It will be hard not to see him around town. Brent
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Kevin McKellar posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
My deepest condolences to all of Randy's family and friends.
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Mary Jean Stewart posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Randy is a friend that I shared a 15 year educational journey with - from Upper Woodstock Elementary School, to Woodstock Composite High School, to Acadia University - and he was always the uncontested STAR! I had to accept early on that sharing a classroom with Randy meant that 2nd or 3rd place was the best I could hope for! When I returned to Fredericton, I reached out to Randy for advice - little did I know that he and Karen would visit all the available properties and send me photos to help me choose my home. My love and condolences go out to Karen and family. May the love Randy had for each of you bring you peace at this time.
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David Bell posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Randy, like me, was a proud and grateful product of the Grace Shaw academy of public speaking and debating at Woodstock High. What good times we had. It was, I think, in ’71 that he and I won the NB debating championship. At the Nationals we encountered a future Newfoundland premier and debated the fellow who’s now Clerk of the Privy Council (who really was quite good). Even as high schoolers Randy and I had Law dreams, and I remember thinking what a good partnership we might make. Years later he had the self-wisdom to leave Law School. The rest is history. Condolences to his family and colleagues. He was called away too soon.
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Margaret “ Peg “ Donovan posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Karen, so very sorry for your loss. Peg Donovan
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Bev Grasse posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
On behalf of the Neil Squire Society and Richard and myself, we would like to extend our sincere condolences. I first met Randy about 20 years ago when I joined the Neil Squire Society. He soon be a mentor and most of all a friend. During our many chats about many things, he often talked about you Karen. The love was so evident in every word he spoke of you. Richard and I along with my staff will be viewing the Celebration of Life at our Fredericton Neil Squire board room. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed!
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Lynn Haley posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Dear Karen and Dickinson Family Members:
I was so deeply saddened to hear the news of Randy’s passing. He was such a remarkable human being – a brilliant mind, a mentor to many, and certainly a true pillar of equal access rights for New Brunswickers with disabilities.
I first met Randy 37 years ago and immediately formed such a deep fondness and respect for him which I still carry today. We shared a close professional working relationship for so many years which spanned various roles and various organizations – culminating in my term as Chairperson of the Premier’s Council for Disabled Persons while he was still serving as the Executive Director. Throughout those years, Randy has had a profound impact on shaping my personal and professional growth - as my trusted guide and treasured friend.
Who could not be in awe of Randy Dickinson? Aside from his legendary record of contributions and achievements, the level of his humanity was extraordinary. Many, including myself, have been graced by his sense of fairness, compassion, patience, encouragement, kindness, and humour which created such a safe, positive, engaging and inclusive space where people were valued, respected, and encouraged to share their voice. He was a brilliant orator who could command a room, captivate an audience, and sway opinions like no other. Randy loved inspirational quotes and poems which he skillfully wove into his speaking notes as a ‘call to action’. My personal favourite is a poem he shared with me many years ago called “It Couldn’t Be Done”. I have kept that poem close as a constant source of inspiration. Each time I read it, I think of how that poem could have been written for him. There was no such thing as “couldn’t be done” in Randy’s world…he just did it!
It’s so hard to find just a few “right words” to capture the essence of someone as special as Randy. Simply put, he was one of the most effective and impactful human beings I have ever met. I salute his tenacity of purpose, his selfless service to others, and his outstanding advocacy and leadership skills. I am forever grateful to have been touched by his guidance, wisdom, optimism, and enthusiasm for life.
There will never be another Randy Dickinson, but I have no doubt his legacy will continue to touch countless individuals for many years to come. His, was indeed, a life well-lived – an extraordinary example of service to humanity and of making every precious minute count.
My thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time of loss.
Sincerely,
Lynn Haley
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Amy & JP McDougall-Fraser posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So sorry for ya loss glad to get Meets back years ago at Disability Awareness in Park think that was only time. Hope all goes well as this is a Difficult time Xo u Karen and Rest of Family thx again Randy rest easy
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Paul & Liz McDonnell posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
We send our condolences to Karen and all the family. We can’t imagine a Fredericton without Randy’s energy and presence. Everywhere we went we would encounter Randy out on a mission of some kind. For us, Randy was the epitome of what community engagement means. We have always been inspired by his myriad achievements and dedication to all those in our community who needed a lift. His memory and contributions will be well kept in our hearts.
Paul & Liz McDonnell
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RaymaTaylor posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So sorry to read about your loss. Randy was an outstanding citizen. My sympathy to all.
Rayma
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Brenda Peters posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So very sorry for the immense lose the family of Randy are going through as well as all those closest to him. His departure is no doubt far reaching outside his closest circle. My very first formal employment when 15 was at Rotary Camp and it was Randy who interviewed and hired me. At that time Randy was there at the camp for the full summer leading all of us. For most first time jobs. I can say that experience set the stage for not only a standard of high work ethic but for so much more valuable work/life skills. He instilled caring. I never forgot Randy and the guidance he provided to his staff and campers…making all feel valued. That was almost 50 years ago and the memories of that summer will never be forgotten. I’ve always been appreciative to him for that experience of first job and first time away from home. Again, so very sorry for everyone’s lose. Brenda Peters
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Judi posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
My very sincere condolences to Randy’s family and many friends - and to his firmer colleagues. It is only a few weeks since I found myself thinking of him and checking to see if he was still working! He was a remarkable human being who made soooo many important contributions. I first met Randy when he was a camper at the Rotary Camp and I was the Camp ‘Nurse’ (I was only a second year UNB Nursing student!) and remember him well for his energy and determination (if memory serves me well, Randy’s challenges with the stairs to get into the cabins were part of what finally helped convinced people of the need to make the ramps). Over the next five or six summers, I watched him and his determination develop. I was delighted many years after I had left NB when I learned he had been the camp director AND about his role in advising the Government of NB. It was a tremendous surprise and pleasure when we next encountered each other as members of the National Forum on Health (1994-96 I think). His wisdom and articulate arguments for accessibility and home care services were major contributions. (Must admit we used to plot a bit about how we could convince other members! ). Given his approach in all things I had the privilege to witness, I can only imagine his commitment to and enjoyment of his family and friends, My condolences to all - may memories of an amazing man be of help in this difficult time. Judi
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Alissa Lee posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Fredericton has lost a great citizen, New Brunswick a great leader, and Canada a great Canadian. The thing I will always remember about Randy is his humble and unassuming nature. If you hadn't previously met him (and didn't know what he looked like), you would never imagine the quiet fellow rolling up to your restaurant table, office desk or the like was the formidable Randy Dickinson. He assumed nothing -- about others or about himself. He asked questions. He learned. He was quietly tenacious. He put others before himself -- always. I don't think he could have worked so ferociously for a cause which was self-serving. He simply wasn't wired that way. He was able to accomplish all that he did simply because he saw those accomplishments as being for others. He's left a legacy that positively effects others now, and in perpetuity.
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Janet Moser posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
To the Dickinson family,
I am so deeply saddened to hear of Randy’s passing! Having seen him in what feels like just a few days ago when I popped by to thank him for his support, this hardly seems real. My sympathies to you Karen and your entire family at this tremendously difficult time. His light will shine bright for a very long time in the memories of those he helped and cheered for. I know this to be true as I am one of them. Please accept my most sincere condolences
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Debby Cougle posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I am so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. I was fortunate to go through school with him in Woodstock, NB. The moment you met Randy you knew he was going to take the world by storm. He was a bright, inquisitive, kind man with so much energy. He always was up on the latest world news, so informed. My thoughts go to Karen, family and all those lucky enough to call him a colleague and friend.
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Pauline Perron posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Dear Karen
I am so sorry for the loss of Randy. He was such a great person, kind, always smiling. He loved to talk about different subjects and was so respectful of everybody. He did a lot for NB but before that, he was your partner, your « âme sœur ». Hope that all good memories will help you go through these difficults moments. ❤️
Xox
Pauline Perron
(As you can see, my English is not better than it was)
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Nancy Waite posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Karen I am so sorry to hear of the death of your beloved husband Randy. He certainly was a well known advocate in this province and highly respected. May all the beautiful memories of your life together bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Nancy Waite
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Constantine Passaris posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
I was deeply saddened to hear a few hours ago of the passing of my good friend Randy Dickinson. It was inevitable that our paths and personal journeys would cross repeatedly. We were both persuasive advocates for equity, diversity, inclusion, and human rights. Randy was a tireless and effective advocate for people with disabilities and their human rights. I was an advocate for equity, multiculturalism and human rights. We worked together, we learned from each other, and developed a friendship that has lasted several decades. It was a friendship that was founded on a meeting of the minds and our two passionate hearts. Shortly before his passing Randy shared a story that captures the essence of his journey and advocacy. During a recent election he was assigned a polling station that was not wheelchair accessible. He was given the option to vote at home. He declined that offer saying that he was not asking for special treatment but equal treatment and insisted that accommodation be made at the polling station so that he and other persons with mobility issues can exercise their democratic rights. For Randy this was a teaching moment. For the rest of us it was one more affirmation that you did not win an argument against Randy because he was always on the right side of history. Randy leaves behind a legacy that should be celebrated and applauded. He has built a better Fredericton, a better New Brunswick and a better Canada. Thank you Randy for your remarkable legacy and for your inspirational vision to make the world a better place. My heartfelt condolences to Randy's family and friends,
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Lynn Bowden posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
It is with great sadness to learn of Randy's passing. Sincere condolences to the families.
Lynn Antworth Bowden
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Marie Hoerle posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Karen we’re so sorry to hear about Randy. We’re all sending our condolences to you at this very hard time. Thinking of you sending you prayers & love. Love you Cuz.
Love Don Esther Marie Hoerle & Coules families.
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Karen Cole posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Karen Linda Stephen Cathy Windy and families. Thoughts are with you all
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Marie Smith posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Randy always went above and beyond to help others in need. He will be missed but always in our hearts.
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Quinn MacLean posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
So sorry to hear of Randy's passing. He was such a great person and did so many things for this community and our province. My condolences to Karen, Linda, Amy and Nancy, sending you all love
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Chris McAloon posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Dear Karen & Family Members... So deeply sorry to learn of Randy's passing. Please accept my sincerest condolences, and know that you are in many warm thoughts and prayers. I know countless many will be truly sharing in your grief, at the passing of this remarkable man and friend too so many. I know that no words can really do at this difficult time, in trying to reflect what a great person he truly was, and how he made such a positive impact on so many levels. He will certainly be missed. There are so many connections, memorable and funny stories, stories of gratitude for 'his' being there and being involved, our often hilarious/fun wheelchair basketball days, seeing how he truly knew the meaning/follow thru of 'comfort the afflicted', but also when necessary, and this was often, 'afflict the comfortable'... much admiration/gratitude for his persistent role this way :) ... and I could go on, and many others I know can add so much more. Hopefully many positive, funny, and incredibly important memories will be shared and brought to life at the Celebration of Life. In the meantime, may the presence of family, friends, and loved ones bring you much peace, comfort, and healing as you gather to pay tribute to his living memory. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
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Cindy Howe posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
So sorry to hear this. I served with Randy on the NBHC. He was a great man and we shared lots of good conversations and laughter
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Erica Young uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
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Today, we join our community in mourning the loss of Randy Eric Dickinson, a fierce advocate for inclusion, accessibility, dignity, and human rights.
Randy was a loyal supporter of Opal Family Services for many years. He quietly gave countless donations, offered encouragement during difficult moments, shared wise advice, celebrated our successes, and always reminded us to keep pushing forward in the work of building a more inclusive community. He was our keynote speaker at our 40th Anniversary event. Did it ever feel great having Randy in your corner, with a microphone!
To know Randy was to witness someone who truly lived his values. He believed deeply in helping others, standing up for what is right, and ensuring people with disabilities were seen, heard, respected, and included. His impact on our community, province and country, and on so many individual lives and families is impossible to measure. Randy was a bit like Santa Claus, enjoying bidding on items at auctions and then distributing them to countless community organizations. We are so grateful to have been a frequent recipient to Randy and Karen's generous support.
On a personal note, I am incredibly grateful for Randy’s kindness he extended toward me, our family and toward Opal over the years. He was not only a remarkable leader and advocate, but also a great friend and cheerleader. He will be greatly missed. I have a "bag of fun" Randy donated recently sitting beside my desk waiting for our summer camps to begin. Randy always enjoyed reminiscing about his time working at Camp Rotary with my mum.
Our hearts are with Karen, his family, friends, and the many people whose lives were touched by his compassion and leadership.
Thank you, Randy, for everything you gave to this community. We will carry your example forward and continue the work of building a world where everyone belongs.
– Erica & the Opal Family
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william valentino posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
I knew Randy when he worked at the grand lake Rotary Camp as a counsler and we use to visit with him when he came over to visit Jean Marie and Ferdinand Valentino a truly remarkable human being
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Carlyn Morteau posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Randy was truly a remarkable man, I will always cherish his memories. He never let anything hold him back, a strong force to be dealt with. I first met Randy while working in downtown Fredericton, Paul Burden Ltd I believe, or maybe Loomis and Toole's. I adored his spirit of independence.
Rest well, a race well won.
To you the family my sincere condolences. Although we never met, love and prayers to you all. Cherish those memories in your hearts forever of this strong free-willed man
Carlyn Faye Moreau
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The family of Randy Eric Dickinson uploaded a photo
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
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Mcadam's funeral home & Crematorium
160 York St.
Fredericton, NB
E3B 3N7
Ph: 506-458-9170
E-mail: McAdams@McAdamsFH.com