Fred Etcher

My memories of times shared with my cousin Fred will never be forgotten. Our common love of sports made for great times, first as a boy, when I would sneak into the arena on a Saturday night to watch my heroes the 'Whitby Dunlops' and later in life when I had the privilege of many golf games with Fred at Dalewood in Port Hope and eventually sharing a week of golf at Myrtle Beach with him and friends. Fred played hard at sports as I believe he did in life. I never beat him at a game but I'm sure others (goalies especially!) suffered the same fate. His companionship was always a lot of fun and I'll cherish those good times forever.

I spent a lot of time with Fred in Europe with the Dunlops in 1958. A friendly, honest and open gentleman. He was a superior hockey player but an even greater person. I was fortunate to have known him.

I am very sorry to hear of Fred's passing. I knew Fred when he played for the McCallum Transporters in Oshawa as did my brother Jack. I conversed with Fred in 2002 when he was admitted to the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame and also in London in 2004 at my brothers viewing. I enjoyed reminiscing with him some of old forgotten memories. Fred will always be remembered for the gentleman and special person he was.

I would like to express my sincere condolences to his wife Mary Jane and Fred's extended family. I have several fond memories of Fred while growing up in the Oshawa Jarvis St. neighbourhood. Those memories also include our many ball teams and our days together in the GM I.E. Dept. In saying a fond farewell to an extraordinary gentleman I believe that my memories of our time with Fred Etcher will never fade.

I am so saddened by the news of Fred's passing. He became a very good friend to me while I worked at Dorchester Veterinary Hospital and I will very much miss his great smile and amazing stories. What warmed me most was his love for his beloved felines. He was an extra-ordinary pet owner and I know his furry family will be missing him immensely. My heart goes out to Mary Jane, a wonderful woman dedicated to keeping Fred happy and loved. You are a very strong lady and will come through this difficult time even stronger. My sincerest condolences go to Mary Jane and Fred's family. Give the kitties some extra hugs and kisses from me please and know that Fred was very dear to me. He will be missed by so many.

The sad news of your departure was forwarded to me by my brother John in London. We both had the priviledge of knowing you and often remarked at your sports skills and class in all your endeavors. As fans, we shared your hockey championships and it was always a pleasure to play a round of golf with you. Your presence was always welcome in the dressing rooms at the old Oshawa Civic Auditorium as you made other players better who played with you. Albeit, often as the opposing Goaltender, I sometimes didn't feel so privaledged as you could 'light it up' just as your warm and welcoming smile always did ! We're Still Fans.

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Fred's family and to his wife Mary Jane, who was a very dear friend of mine from our high school years. She and I recently reconnected after many years and she had described her husband in the most happy and loving terms. Please know that my husband, he too is a Fred, and I are thinking of you and wishing you tranquility and peace of mind as you go through this difficult time.

I was so sorry to learn of Fred's passing. I have very fond memories of him as my older cousin. I remember enjoying many visits in Oshawa when his family was young. He was an usher for my parents' wedding and held a special place in their hearts. We were all so proud of his hockey legacy as well, but I will always remember his kind manner.

In today's harsh world, it's good to be able to reflect on the life of one who was full of positive, encouraging words and countless acts of kindness. Fred was a gentleman. He had a genuine interest in the well-being of others. Thank you for loving and supporting your husband so well, Mary Jane. You've been such a fine example of a faithful, devoted wife. Thank you for the peace and joy you brought into our cousin's life. May God grant you His peace as you journey on.

I want to express my sympathy on the death of Fred. He captained a Huff n"Puff hockey team as well as a Huff n'Puff baseball team that I had the pleasure of playing on. He was totally without an ego and one would never have known he was a superelative athlete and a world champion. He was always helpful in pointing out ways to improve my play. I admired Fred and saw him as a wonderful role model. He lived his Christian faith but never was obnoxious about it. I am sure all who knew Fred are saddened by his loss. Ken Fitchett

Mary Jane and Family: Words are inadequate at a time such as this but please know you have our deepest condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Fred was a great friend and teammate. We spent many hours rehashing old sports stories and talking about oldtime players and teams, hockey and baseball in particular. He was proud of being in seven different sports halls of fame, a fact very few people knew. It was a pleasure to have known him.

Dear Mary Jane & Family, Our deepest condolences to you and your entire family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Fred has now entered into Heaven's Sport Hall of Fame. May he rest in eternal peace . . . . Julie and Dan Tymchyshyn Oshawa, ON.

I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Mary Jane and Fred's entended family. I remembering listening to the radio as a kid while the Whitby Dunlops won the championship. It was an experience for me playing against Fred in the GM hochey league. I know now why the Pilkeys were excellent sports folks as they were related to Fred. It was a pleasure to have known him and his name will live on.

My condolences on your loss. I had the pleasure of knowing Fred through hockey. He will be missed by all in the sporting community and remembered for being a great guy and standing up for his beliefs. Special thoughts for niece, Tracy. Neil Armstrong, Whitby, Ontario

I have just learned of Fred's passing. I would just like to express my condolences to his family. Although I had not seen Fred in many years, I remember him well. My grand parents were big suporters of Fred during his hockey days. Fred always remembered that and would visit them on occasion in later years. His kindness will always be remembered by me. A true gentleman.

(Donated to The Boys and Girls Club)