A well-known Fort Frances businessman and co-recipient of the town’s Citizen of the Year in 2023 has died.
Duane Cridland’s passing was announced by the Flint House on its Facebook page on Monday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Flint House owner, Duane Cridland. Duane was an incredible person and a great boss, his legacy will forever live on in our community,” states the post.
Cridland opened the restaurant in 2015 after selling Gillon’s Insurance that year.
He owned Gillon’s for over 30 years and helped it expand to other northwestern Ontario communities.
Cridland was also a co-founder of Cantilever Distilling Company in Rainer, Minnesota, and co-owner of Manitou Weather Station fishing resort.
In December, the town of Fort Frances honoured Cridland and his wife Grace for their volunteerism and philanthropy.
The Cridlands assisted several events and organizations, such as Relay for Life, the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship and Tour de Fort.
“Wherever there is a need in Fort Frances, you will find Duane, Grace, or both of them or feeling that other members of their family present are willing to lend a hand,” said Mayor Andrew Hallikas during the presentation of the town’s Citizen of the Year award in December.
“Duane, along with his family, has been a pillar of generosity and kindness in our area. They have organized and sponsored the annual Christmas dinner, hosted cancer fundraisers, and donated food to the homeless. Their involvement in various events and organizations has left an indelible mark on our community,” the Flint House said on its Facebook page.
The restaurant says it will close on Wednesday and Thursday in Cridland’s honour.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Flint House owner, Duane Cridland. Duane was an…
Posted by Flint House on Monday, January 29, 2024
