September 18, 1935 - June 6, 2020
It is with profound sadness that we, Fred's family announce his sudden and unexpected, yet peaceful passing in the Vernon Jubilee Hospital on June 6th, 2020 at the age of 84 years.
Fred was blessed to have been married to Rita, the love of his life, for 62 years. Together they created a family unit which he believed was his life's purpose. Every child, grandchild and great-grandchild brought extreme pride and joy to Fred's life and each one held a very special place in his heart. Those left to lovingly remember him are his beloved wife, Rita; their three children, Gerry (Darlene) Makasoff of Kelowna, B.C., Michael (Kim) Makasoff of Lumby, B.C. and Tracey (Duane) Jackson of Vernon, B.C.; six grandchildren, Joshua (Erin) Makasoff of Vernon, B.C., Jordan (Ally) Makasoff of Lavington, B.C., Kevin Makasoff and Brian Makasoff both of Kelowna, B.C., Danielle Jackson of Delta, B.C. and Brittany Jackson of Vernon, B.C.; five great-grandchildren, Olivia Makasoff, Riley Makasoff, Ellie Makasoff, Lyla Makasoff and Maverick Makasoff; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Anne Makasoff; and two sisters, Doris Field and Constance Davidson.
Fred was born on September 18th, 1935 in White Beach, Saskatchewan. In his childhood he attended elementary schools in Kamsack, Saskatchewan followed by Beairsto Elementary School in Vernon. After attending Seaton Secondary School, Fred started his working career with Sigalet Brothers followed by Valley Tire and Goodyear until finishing his working years at Dairyland in 1997.
Fred was always an extremely hard worker and he instilled this in his children who admired him for his integrity in work and life. In earlier days, Fred played hockey and school sports, and coached baseball, football and hockey. In early adult years, Fred enjoyed curling, hunting, fishing, and camping with his kids.
After retirement he found great joy taking the grandchildren fishing at Pinaus Lake, creating many cherished memories for each generation. Although Fred was not a world traveler, his and Rita's 50th wedding anniversary Alaska cruise was a dream come true for them. In later years, Fred was most passionate about his fishing and his lawn care, and coffee time with his buddies.
Fred's faith and his church family were extremely important from beginning to end. Over the years he participated in every possible way to ensure things would be done as required - Fred's way! Fred volunteered as a driver for the cancer car program, which was a shuttle service for people needing treatment in Kelowna.
He also volunteered for the Summer Games. Throughout Fred's life he had a very special way about him that made a lasting impression on others. He maintained numerous lifelong friendships and made new friends easily, and he cherished each and every one of them.
Cremation preceded a Graveside Service which was held with only immediate family attending, on Friday, June 19th, 2020 at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery. A gathering followed at his son's residence in Lumby, B.C.
As an expression of sympathy, those who wish to do so may send donations in memory of Fred to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, 2101-32nd Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 5L2, the Peace Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 1204-30th Avenue, Vernon, B.C. V1T 1Z5 or to the charity of your choice.
We, Fred's family extend our heartfelt appreciation to the doctors, nurses and support staff at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital for your kindness and compassion. Your caring attitude helped ease our sadness at this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements were made with Bethel Funeral Chapel Ltd., 5605-27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5. 250-542-1187