FREDERICK ROBERT MAHER

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FREDERICK ROBERT MAHER October 4, 1928 - November 7, 2017 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Fred Maher, at age 89, while residing at Oakview Place in Winnipeg. Left to cherish his memory are his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 67 years, Vera; his daughter, Brenda Antonyshyn (Kevin); his granddaughter, Julia; and his brother-in-law, Bob Lockwood. Fred was predeceased by his parents George and Annie, as well as by his sisters Muriel, Claire, Laura and Lillian, and brothers George, Harold and Art. Fred was born in Winnipeg. After graduating from Daniel McIntyre, he worked for MTS from 1948 to 1988 where he was promoted several times. He moved from Winnipeg to Virden, Brandon, Thompson and then back to Winnipeg where he was the manager of long distance and TV services. In 1980 Fred suffered heart problems and decided to take a less stressful job in the Product Development Group. In 1985 he was transferred to work on a system called F.R.E.D. (Fire Reporting and Emergency Dispatch) developed to assist volunteer fire departments in small towns. Fred loved talking to people and enjoyed travelling around Manitoba talking about this important system. In addition to family and work, Fred valued getting involved in his community. He was a dedicated Lions Club member for decades and was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellow Award. He received an Honorary Citizen award from both the mayors of Brandon and Thompson. In 1969 when Thompson was experiencing a doctor shortage, Fred organized the city's extensive worldwide doctor recruitment program, which attracted 16 doctors. He also supported his daughter's figure skating by tirelessly volunteering at club and Section levels, acting as the Section Chair for Skate Canada Manitoba in 1980. Most of all Fred will be remembered by family and friends as a kind and gentle man who in his retirement years enjoyed staying active by walking at the Re-Fit Centre, ballroom dancing, bowling, and curling, as well as going on a cruise (or two) with his wife and friends. The family would like to thank the staff of Oakview Place for their kindness and care over the past 18 months. A celebration of Fred's life will be held at Chapel Lawn at 4000 Portage Ave. on Saturday, November 18 at 2:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be made, if desired, to either the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or CancerCare Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 10, 2017