Cory Richard Fox

Cory R. Fox passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024 after a four year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). A retired firefighter, paramedic, husband, son, brother, uncle, and father of two who will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife Lacey, daughters Olivia and Kennedy, parents, and siblings LaNette, Derek, Brian, Matt, and Nisha.

Cory was born to Marvin and Carol Fox on November 11, 1969 and grew up when Beaverton was surrounded by farmlands, leading to his enjoyment of the outdoors and life-long friends. After graduating from the University of Oregon with a degree in health education, he obtained paramedic training before moving to Grants Pass in 1994 to begin a career at Grants Pass Fire and Rescue.

Due to the unusual hours of a firefighter schedule, he was a self described stay-at-home dad who worked full-time, allowing him to be involved in car-pools, the elementary school PTA, sporting events, and cooking yummy family dinners. The girls learned early that Saturdays were for college game day BBQs, Christmas Eve was for chicken noodle soup, and summers were for epic family vacations. Additionally, he was the first to offer up help with any type of household project, not just for family members, but anyone in need.

Professionally, Cory was a dedicated firefighter/paramedic who retired in 2020 as a lieutenant with Grants Pass. He loved his work and helping the community. There is nothing like being a part of the firefighter family. He received several awards over the years including Outstanding Contribution to our Community by the Josephine County Emergency Medical Services Board, an Award of Distinction for heroic rescue and suppression efforts during a fire, and a Certificate of Recognition from the Grants Pass School District for resuscitating a cardiac arrest victim.

Cory rekindled his love for golf in recent years. He was a board member and his family were active members of the Grants Pass Golf Club. He especially enjoyed watching the girls grow to enjoy the sport. Other groups he enjoyed include the Breakfast Club and his "Church" group. The friendships he made were lasting and significant.

The family is extremely grateful for the community of friends and family who have supported them during this horrific illness. They would also like to extend a thank you to those working with ALS on an everyday basis and Asante Hospice for their care and compassion.

A celebration of life will be held at Fruitdale Elementary School at 10 am on October 19, 2024, followed by a gathering at the Weekend Beer Company. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to ALS Northwest (alsnorthwest.org), Team Gleason (teamgleason.org), or Michael Franti's Do It for the Love Foundation (doitforthelove.org).