We Remember

HAWRYSH, Frederick John
—
Fred passed away on February 8, 2020. He was born in Edson, Alberta and at the time, his family lived in a small railway town in the Rockies where his father was a fireman on the CNR.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Ava; his two sons Fred Jr. and Ronald and their ladies Laura and Danuta. Fred was especially proud of his grandchildren Justin and Kyra. He had four sisters: Nelly, Helen, Mary, and Jeanne, all have predeceased him. He is also survived by four nephews: Jerry, Larry, Danny and Robbie; six nieces: Patty, Darlene, Rhonda, Maureen, Brenda, and Marylou. There was a large family of children from his nieces and nephews, Fred loved them all and was always happy to be with them. Ava came from a large family, who were also dear to his heart.
Fred spent his happy teen years in Edson and managed to have a variety of jobs while attending school. His favorite job was as a projectionist at the local movie theatre. He attended the University of Alberta in Edmonton on a Bursary Scholarship and taught school at the age of 17. Fred joined the Navy in 1951 and was there for 34 years. He, in turn, became an Air Armourer, Air Observer (navigator), Operations Officer on several ships, Squadron (ships) Training Officer, Staff Officer in Maritime Headquarters in Halifax and Ottawa, a recruiter, and was in command of a Helicopter Destroyer Detachment and in charge of an Occupational Analysis Function, which he helped to pioneer and from which he received international recognition and awards. He was devoted to the Navy and became a Commander. During his flying years, he served in a Support Squadron, an Avenger Anti-submarine Squadron (VS88) and a Sea King Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS50). Fred served on many ships on both coasts including three WWII Frigates, three WWII Destroyers, two Helicopter Destroyers, a cruiser and two Aircraft Carriers.
On retirement, Fred and Ava settled in Victoria, BC then because of health problems moved to Kelowna, BC, which they loved to the end. They loved to travel the world and wintered in the USA and Mexico. One of Fred’s final wishes was that he be cremated, and his ashes be scattered at sea off Victoria (Esquimalt).
A viewing will take place on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at Springfield Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Visitation
Thursday, February 13, 2020
Springfield Funeral Home
(Kelowna, BC , )
My deepest condolences Ron and the entire family. I have very fond memories of your dad driving us kids to the cottage and always stopping at the chip truck for amazing fries, fishing and hearing his funny military stories He was always such a kind funny and giving man – Ron you carry on the best of your dad’s qualities my friend. Deepest Condolences to you, Denuta, your mom the your brother Fred.
Your life long friend
Wayne
Dear Ava, Fred Jr., and Ron,
We are so saddened with the news of Fred’s passing and we wish we were able to be there to give you our condolences in person. Please forgive us. You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers as you morn Fred’s death.
Cousin Fred was a big man – in spirit and in character (and in stature). I have many memories of Fred; at the farm playing stooke with ‘the boys’, his visits to my mom and dad (Auntie Mary and Uncle Pete), and his bbq steak with his special homemade marinade that he treated Karl and I with when we visited him in Kanata (It really wasn’t special – it was mostly the juice left over from the olive jar). But honestly what I will remember the clearest and be dearest in my memory is his laugh. Fred’s laugh came from the bottom of his heart – so big and so genuine you couldn’t help but feel happy when you were with him.
May your memories keep him close to your hearts and help you in difficult moments when you miss him most.
All our love,
Jeanette and Karl Runions
To auntie Ava ron and fred thinking of you all and crying at the same time just keep your head up and your heart filled with all the love he gave us all lots of memories loulou
News for Fred’s passing was received with greast sadness by his Naval compatriots.. We send condolences to the family for having lost who we remember as a true gentleman. His varied Naval career both flying and sailing culminated in ground beaking work in war game analysis, for which he is oficially remembered. He. was our Millennial Man. God rest his soul.
Hello Ava and family, please accept my sincerest condolences. Now that I have the obituary, I shall disseminate it to Fred’s navy friends forthwith. With respects, George Plawski.
Dear Ava, We just learned of Fred’s passing so that is the reason we are so late in expressing our sincere
condolence to you and your family. We had so many good times with you and Fred in Sun City, Arizona
especially New Year’s Eve. Thinking & praying for you.