April 13, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
Fred died peacefully at the Palliative Care Unit, Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the age of 90 years.
Fred was predeceased by his wife, Beverly, his parents, his siblings, and his eldest son, Derek.
Fred will be remembered by his children, Brenda (Eric), Trevor, and Christine; his grandchildren, Kayla and Samuel; his stepson, Vernon (Laurie), and his step grandchildren, Jake, Shayla, and Mason.
He will also be missed by his childhood chum, Richard (Joyce); his good friend and neighbor, Ed (Linda); his uncle John, his nieces, nephews and cousins, and his fellow card players at the Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre.
Fred lived a full life pursuing his passion for travel. As teenagers, Fred and Richard chose their first travel destination by throwing a dart at a map. Thus began many road trips, camping expeditions, and RV caravans across North America.
Despite Fred's fear of water, he joined the Navy Cadets, canoed, and enjoyed ocean and river cruises. Fred had an undying love for Canada's Arctic and his fondest destinations were Africa and Australia. Hawaii, he espoused, must be seen by everybody at least once.
Fred had a strong work ethic and was most proud of his employment years. Fred worked until he was seventy-eight years of age for the pure joy of earning a paycheque. He retold experiences as a crane operator in Kitimat BC, Officer at Headingly Correctional Institute, WCB Manitoba (which to this day carries the logo he created), through his stellar career in Occupational Health and Safety across the Arctic, and 'retirement' with the RCMP Detachment in Red Deer.
His work in Kitimat allowed Fred to experience the thrill of life on the rails. Fred spent many years collecting model trains and creating miniature towns and work yards, in his train room.
Fred was meticulous in everything that he did. He had high expectations and was not known for his praise or generosity. Yet, he had a sentimental side that peeked out, for example, with him buying matching Christmas ornaments for family members as a reminder of their connection. Or, on special occasions, he might hide money under your dinner plate or send you a purchased card, signed just by him.
Fred had an endless curiosity, which helped him stay abreast of current affairs, historical events, and technology. This combination created the perfect storm for him to email multiple letters to the editor of Red Deer Advocate criticizing municipal decisions, which he opposed. Finally, you didn't know Fred if you didn't know he had a zeal for a deal. He was his happiest sharing how he finangled something for free. It didn't matter whether it resulted in a free pen, a hotdog, or shoe polish thrown in with his newly purchased shoes. Free was free. And, as he said, 'You've just gotta ask.'
As Spring starts to bloom, Fred would have wanted to be preparing his garden, watching the birds return to build nests and hatch nestlings under his balcony, caring for his beloved raspberry bushes, talking with Ed through the fence, and cursing whomever let a dog poop on his lawn.
Fred's children are grateful to his friends and family who have accompanied him throughout his life. A Private Interment will be held in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your own choice. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com
Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 - 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040