Well-known retired Ottawa Valley newspaper publisher Fred Runge has died. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Fred was just 27 in 1978 when, despite holding an honours degree in urban and regional planning, he decided to follow his father’s footsteps in the print industry and accept an offer to head The Renfrew Mercury.
“Fred’s laid-back managerial style and charismatic personality helped shepherd the paper into the digital age, building the business into a modern, thriving, award-winning publisher,” reads his obituary.
Fred immersed himself in the newspaper business, growing the company from three papers and a press to the substantial company it became.
In 2007, Fred sold his 17 newspapers, which included the Mercury and Arnprior Chronicle-Guide, to Metroland.
According to his obituary, well after his retirement, Fred could still be seen cherishing the feel and smell of an old-school newspaper.
“Fred immersed himself in post-retirement life with the same drive and enthusiasm he held throughout his career. The ski hill, golf course, and cottage became his new office,” reads his obituary. “His humour and warmth was shared with family and friends over cold beer during apres-skis, or a glass of wine during late mid-summer cottage nights. He was most at peace watching the sunrise over the lake, cup of coffee in hand.”
Fred is survived by his wife of 45 years Barbara Smith, sons Graham and Alec and grandchildren, as well as numerous family members and friends.
Private family services will be held at Goulet Funeral Home. In Fred’s memory, donations can be made to Hospice Renfrew.
(Sherry Haaima)