At the sharp age of 94 Fred passed away suddenly but peacefully at home in Chemainus, where he resided with his son Dave.
Fred was born in Skelmersdale, England. He immigrated to Halifax, Canada by steamliner in 1927 - it was a 10 day voyage with his Mom (Phyllis), 1 sister (Edna) and 3 brothers (Denis, Murray, Jack) - all predeceased.
He later traveled by train to Radville, Saskatchewan. Fred did his schooling there, then worked on farms and ranches and even owned his own cow pony when the war broke out!
At 18 he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as an Aero Engine mechanic. In his 4 years in the Air Force, he spent time in England and Europe with city of Toronto 400 SQD.
He landed day 6 in France and went all the way as far as Denmark. Fred returned to Canada (Saskatoon) after V-day. He then worked paving runways at the airport, on the CP Rail, and took training in motion picture projection. This led him to eventually opening his own photo studio as a photographer but he missed the time he had in the RCAF and reenlisted in 1951.
Fred moved to Edmonton, Alberta, Namo RCAF Stn. He transferred to Photo Establishment. There, he met his sweetheart (Doreen Hayes), married, August, 1946 and started his family.
His next travel brought him with family in tow to #2 Fighter Wing in France for 2 years, then on to Sardinia, Italy for 2 years at the Air Base weapons training in Decimomannu. He returned to Canada to RCAF post STN at Cold Lake, Alberta. He was released of service in 1965, and moved to Duncan, BC.
Fred loved to fish and garden! He also loved travel, always with camera in hand! He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and Order of Eastern Star - what he called a group of “Do Gooders’. He was a role model. Anyone that knew him could attest to him being just that! He was a kind and gentle man who took the time to make everyone who knew him feel special. His humor endeared him to many! His friends and family have lost an exceptional person. He will be forever remembered for his love of good food, especially coconut desserts, friendships, strong faith, and his “kibitzing” around! He was a devout Christian and ready to be with his Lord and wife!
Doreen passed away in 1988 but Fred is survived by his son, Dave, and daughter, Marilyn Shane (Kent), Grandchildren, Jennifer, and Jamie (Chelsie), Great-grandchildren, Parker, Issac, and Owen.
Fred lived life to the fullest! He was loved, respected, and admired by all who knew him!
Our thanks to all who befriended our dear Dad, especially all the caring souls at Coastal Missions.
Fred’s wishes are for any donations to be made to: Coastal Mission Society, 3450 Hillside Rd., Chemainus, BC, V0R 1K2.