Fred Wood of Salmon Arm, born on February 9, 1930 in Weston Ontario, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2016 at the Kelowna Hospice House. Born to Jack and Lillian Wood he was a brother to Ron (Helen), Jean (Ernie), Ernie (Rita), Mick and Margaret.
Fred married Betty Anne Barker in 1951. They lived in Toronto, Winnipeg and Edmonton before settling in Tappen in 1978. Fred and Betty raised 5 children during this time. Following the passing of Betty in 2007 after 55+ years of wonderful marriage, Fred moved into Salmon Arm. In 2010 Fred renewed an old friendship with Marg McQueen. That friendship grew into something special. Marg would eventually move to Salmon Arm in 2010 and the two were married in October 2013. A very thankful Thanksgiving.
Fred was an avid outdoorsman, hunting, fishing, and camping were his passions. He was also a fan of big block motorcycles and was the owner of a mid-40’s Harley Davidson. A motorcycle he would eventually sell so he could afford to buy an engagement ring for his bride to be, Betty Anne.
But what Fred will be most remembered for is being a father and family man. Fred inspired & enabled his children to do as much as they could as best as he could. Having his kids play softball, baseball, hockey, bowling he ensured we were at the games in time. Fred spent many many hours watching these activities. This passion he would later share with his Grandchildren and created many great memories.
Those that came to meet Fred got to know a person who was friendly, honest and kind. He always had time for a long chat or a few words. You need help? Ask Fred. He was someone who would always make an effort to help those who needed help. Perhaps this was best shown when Fred and Betty ran the Salmon Arm Food Bank from 1981 to 1996. Fred and Betty were also responsible for the start-up of the Christmas Bear Program in Salmon Arm.
Fred is survived by his wife Margaret and her two sons Jimmy (Shelly) John (Nancy) daughter Anne (Don) son’s David (Beth) Michael (Cheryl) and Scott (Kathleen) ,Tom (deceased 2015) William (deceased 1953). Fred also leaves behind 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren which he dearly loved.
Fred’s family would like thank those at the Kelowna Hospice House, Dr. Breugum Salmon Arm, Dr. Connor Salmon Arm, Dr. Mark Clark Kelowna. Fred’s family would also like to thank all those friends and family from Salmon Arm to Toronto for their support and well wishes during these past few months.
A celebration of life service was held from Bowers Funeral Chapel on Saturday, tributes were shared by family and friends. Cremation arrangements in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.
In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to the Shuswap Hospice Society. Donate on-line or mail in, PO Box 976, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4P1.
On line condolences may be sent to Fred’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com