By Lincoln DePradine

In the 62-year history of the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA), less than 20 men and women have served as the association’s president. One of them is Karl Fuller, who once described his mother as a “giant’’ that had the greatest influence on his life’’.

Fuller, who was residing in Hollywood, Florida, died earlier this month at 87. His funeral was held last Saturday, May 26.

Retired trade unionist Herman Stewart, who served twice as association president, was the JCA’s official representative at the service.

Stewart fondly remembers Fuller for his dignity and gentlemanly nature. 

“Karl was a gentleman in every sense of the word. He was a dignified leader. No matter how big the challenges were, he never lost his temper, he never lost his focus,’’ Stewart told The Caribbean Camera.

Fuller, born 1937 in Gordon Town, Jamaica, landed his first job at age 16 with the Jamaica Public Works.

A husband, father and grandfather, who had a lifelong commitment to the church, Fuller pursued tertiary education studies after leaving Jamaica.

First, it was in accounting in England where he arrived in December 1958.

His migration to Toronto, in 1963, was followed by a move to the United States to earn a Master’s degree in urban planning from Boston University.

Fuller, married with two sons, returned to Toronto in 1978 and, in the ensuing years, cemented his reputation for his religious devotion and community involvement, as well as a successful businessman.

He was JCA president from 1992-1996. Among other things, he also served on the board of directors for George Brown College as well as on the board of governors for the Ontario Civilian Police Commission.

Fuller also was director of an organization that provided computer training for the physically disabled.

He took up permanent residency in Florida after his job retirement in Toronto.

Fuller worked part-time in real estate in Florida and maintained his Christian faith as a member of the Fountainside Gospel Chapel, and later the Bible Baptist Church.

Residency in Florida did not stop Fuller from supporting JCA fundraising events, including the association’s annual walkathon, said Stewart.

“He would send hundreds of dollars in sponsorship because he knew it was for a good cause,’’ Stewart said.

According to Stewart, Fuller always was ready to help anyone needing assistance.

He also praised Fuller as someone who was kind and trustworthy. Stewart related a personal experience when he wanted to buy a condo in Florida. Fuller completed a successful property search for him.

Instead of taking the next step and travelling to Florida for a firsthand look at the property, Stewart said he told Fuller: “‘I respect your judgment; and if you say that it’s okay, then it’s okay with me’. And, I didn’t have to go down to Florida. I trusted his judgment.’’

Fuller is survived by his wife Norrice, sons Andrew and Craig, three grandsons,  and two brothers and two sisters.