Karl Ayer
1944 - 2026
Sharon Ayer
1946 - 2026
It is with sadness and gratitude that we announce the deaths of Karl and Sharon Ayer which occurred with peace and dignity on the 18th of September 2026. Born in 1944, and 1946, respectively, both grew up in Fredericton NB, met as youth and became inseparable.
After Karl attended NBCC in Saint John, they married in 1967 and moved to Ontario (and for a year to England in 1969), to pursue careers and begin a family, returning to Fredericton to raise their children: Heather Vass (Jeff) and Amy Richard (Tony). While in Fredericton, Karl was an owner and operator of MacDonald Builders and Suppliers, and Sharon a legal assistant and bookkeeper.
Karl was a woodsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing at his much-loved hunting camp, where he made lifelong friends. He was also a sailor, and had fond memories of races across Northumberland Straight, and happy days in Shediac Bay. Sharon was a talented artist, making hundreds of quilts, many sold and many donated, as well as sweaters and her famous wool socks. Together, they retired to live at our family cottage, travelled the world and wintered in Arizona, where they enjoyed friends and family.
Karl and Sharon are survived by their two daughters: Heather and Amy; as well as three loving grandchildren: Maryn (Heather and Jeff Vass), Evie and Ronin (Amy and Tony Richard). Sharon is also survived by her beloved sister Joan Wise (Gary); and their children: Elizabeth and Kathleen. Karl is also survived by a special niece, Pegi McKay, and niece, Janet Gillies; by his nephews: Frank Ayer, George Ayer (Birte), John Ayer (Lee) and Douglas Ayer (Marlene); as well as a cousin, Brian Gough (Myrna). Karl also leaves behind his dear lifelong and loyal friend, Ian MacPherson.
Karl was predeceased by his brother James (Jim) Ayer, and sister Catherine McKay.
We wish to thank both, Parkland Shannex Riverview, for their care and commitment to our parents, as well as the MAID team for compassionately guiding us on this journey.
The family will receive condolences at Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, 396 Main Street, Shediac (506-532-3297), on Tuesday, September 22, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. followed by a reception "at the cottage". There will be no funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, in memory of Karl and Sharon, and to the request of the family, donations to the New Brunswick Alzheimer’s Society, would be appreciated.
Funeral arrangements are under the professional care of Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, Shediac (506-532-3297).
Words of comfort and donations may be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com