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Family of Nanaimo shooting victim share grief, ask for privacy

The family of Fred McEachern, a mill worker gunned down at Western Forest Products in Nanaimo on Wednesday, released a statement late today.
Fred McEachern
Fred McEachern was one of two men killed by a gunman at Western Forest Products on Wednesday.

The family of Fred McEachern, a mill worker gunned down at Western Forest Products in Nanaimo on Wednesday, released a statement late today.

McEachern was scheduled to leave to Las Vegas next week to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary when he was one of two men, including Michael Lunn, 62, killed Wednesday. Two more — Earl Kelly and Tony Sudar — were injured and are recovering.

McEachern leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Lorraine, and two children — Tristan, who turns 21 this month, and Paige, 25 — and a sister, Gail Hagen.

McEachern’s family, overwhelmed by grief, are grateful for the outpouring of support and condolences, but are unable to speak publicly about their loss and today requested privacy.

“Lorraine, Paige and Tristan McEachern and their families would like to thank their friends and community for their overwhelming support during this terrible time.

“We are very humbled and grateful for the show of love and respect for Fred.

“At this time we would like to ask the media to respect our privacy while we grieve our beloved Fred.”

McEachern was born and grew up in Victoria. His parents owned the former Oak Bay Flower Shop on Oak Bay Avenue and Hampshire Road.

McEachern went to Monterey Elementary School, then Oak Bay Junior High School and Oak Bay High School. He graduated in 1978.

He has been described as a loving father and husband with a big laugh who always offered help to others and never expected anything in return.

charnett@timescolonist.com