LEA; Fred passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at the age of 77.
Survived by loving wife Anne Marie; children, Frank (Gislaug),Rune (Nicole), Ann-Elin (Jeff) and Kurt-Helge (Irene); grandchildren, Anita, Kurtis, Britney, Melissa, Kristopher, Tiffany, Karsten, Amalie, Bjornar, Hans and Sophia; great grandchildren, Tanner, Chloe, Halle, Brayden and Laila. Brothers: William (Canada), Jan (Norway) Sisters: Mary, Judith, Torill (all Norway), Bjorg (Lillemor, Canada) Predeceased by 2 brothers Peder and Sigurd.
Born in Norway, Fred was number five in a family of 9 brothers and sisters. He left school early and started his career as a fisherman and sailor which was an eventful experience around the globe. In 1962 he married his Anne Marie and the following year the first son was born and within 1967 they already had 4 children! Before the 4th child was born they managed to build their first house at Madla in Stavanger. In 1966 Fred joined Rosenberg Verft in the shipbuilding business and worked here until 1977 when he pursued his dream to come to Canada and join his 2 brothers and sister who lived in Port Alberni and Nanaimo. His second day in the Valley he started working for Alberni Engineering shipyard. One of Fred's main tasks was to operate a computerized cutting table which was an important contribution in the business. Fred retired early from Alberni Engineering in 1999 after a foot injury. He enjoyed bowling, crib and spent much time at Sons of Norway where he served many terms in the role of Club President. Fred loved doing Norwegian crossword puzzles, travelling and visiting family in Canada and Norway. His many stories of his childhood and travels were a source of great joy to his family. His memory and singing of old Norwegian folk songs was fantastic and some of these lyrics could only be sung by Fred.
A Celebration of Life will be held 1:00 - 3:00pm, Thursday, May 1, 2014 at the Italian Canadian Society Hall, 4065 6th Ave, Port Alberni.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's memory may be donated to Ty Watson House, 2649 - 2nd Ave, Port Alberni, BC., V9Y 1Z8.
The family would like to thank friends and other family members for all support and we would also like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Ty Watson for the exceptional care Fred received while he was there.