November 24,1935-January 26,2016
Passed away peacefully in his home on Cortes Island, BC encircled by his family.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Patty, of almost 60 years; sons Barry, Dan (Linda), John (Barbara), Captain Richard (Catherine), Randall (Wendy), daughter Deanna, brother Jim (Lilly), sister Carol McIntyre (Joe), Papa to 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Fred lived and worked in his early years in Victoria, BC. He worked for Island Tug & Barge, Rivtow Marine and Chemainus Towing, where he did log towing & salvage, and earned his certification in Hard Hat Diving.
Fred received his Captains ticket in 1964 and soon after bought his first tug, the “Nitinat Chief”. Onboard he taught his sons everything he knew about his passion for the ocean and towing.
In 1982 the Nitinat Chief became home for 8 years, and his family all went hand logging.
On retirement Fred and Patty returned to Cortes Island where he took up building rock pillars and fences, gardening and enjoying his puppies Brandy and Ping, and sitting on the deck telling his stories.
So often Fred was told he should write a book, and as his last project he did just that... leaving behind an account of his adventures for his family and friends to treasure.
Under his rough exterior, Fred was the most loving, caring and compassionate husband and father. A kind soul, who will be forever remembered.
His family will hold a memorial in the early summer at his home on Cortes Island.
If desired, donations in Fred’s memory may be made to your local SPCA.