It is with sad hearts that the family of Fred S. Swiscoski announce his passing on August 20, 2020 after a courageous battle with myelodysplastic.
Fred was born to John and Nellie on October 19, 1934 in Minnedosa, Manitoba. A strong work ethic was instilled in Fred at an early age, having been raised on the family farm in Bethany along with his five siblings: Alec, Gertie, Rosie, John, and Dave. Fred attended school at Empire and at the age 21 he became employed with CN Rail as a Maintenance Worker in the Prairie Region, a position he held for 34 years. During that time, Fred bought land in the Bethany and Clanwilliam areas where would spend many hours with his brother John, cutting trees for firewood.
In the summer of 1984, Fred married Florence McDonald (Larson) and together they built a beautiful home in Erickson where they would host many get togethers and celebrations. Fred enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, fishing, gardening, and finding a good garage sale. After retirement in 1989, the couple spent many nights camping in their 5th wheel trailer, taking small trips across the prairies, often with the grandkids on board, all who loved to spend time with Gramma and Poppa. They also enjoyed several trips abroad and touring throughout the U.S. and Canada. They especially loved living in the park area and were often found at someone’s cabin or around a campfire for an evening visit.
At the age of 70, Fred began working part time as a Rural Mower Operator with the Municipality of Clanwilliam, which he continued to do for eight seasons. Fred would say this was the best job he ever had as he could set his own hours, enjoyed coming across the different wildlife, and visiting with the folks along the route. Fred would also do yard maintenance and provide wood to several cabin owners at Clear Lake, which he did until his early 80’s.
Fred had a reputation for being a genuinely nice man, who made people laugh with his antics and his story telling. He enjoyed a good meal and was always complimentary to anyone for doing nice things for him. He deeply appreciated all the help he received from his family, friends, and neighbors when the day to day became more challenging for him. He would always remark about the outstanding care he received while in the Minnedosa Health Centre and Erickson Personal Care Home, and his family is incredibly grateful to the nurses, doctors, and care providers for their gentle kindness to Fred.
Most importantly Fred was a wonderful husband, father, poppa, great grandpa, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Predeceased by his wife Florence in December, 2018, Fred is lovingly remembered by his daughters Sherri (Brian), Wendy (Jim), and Melanie (Allan); his grandchildren Brad (Krystal), Dani (Jason), Teighan, Mack, Cade, and Holden along with great grandchildren, Hadley, Nash, Adeline and Daxon; his siblings Gertie, Dave (Glenda) and John (Pat); his in-laws: Leona, Marilyn, Del (Nora), along with numerous nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
To honor Fred’s wishes, there will be no funeral, only a private burial will take place at the Hilltop Baptist Church Cemetery, Erickson. Please consider, in lieu of flowers, a donation to the Erickson Personal Care Home in Fred’s name.
Thank you for your kindness and your humor. You will be in our hearts forever.