In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

 

Frederick Donald Hollands

 

Leading Seaman Weaponman Underwater

 

RCN / C.A.F. (Navy)

 

Born: 14 Dec 1944          Died: 18 Dec 2023

 

Fred Hollands served in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1962 until 1970. When he decided not to re-enlist he was a Leading Seaman, Weapons Underwater. Fred served in HMCS GATINEAU, RESTIGOUCHE, FRASER and PROVIDER.

 

He comes from a family with a long history with the Royal Canadian Navy.

 

His grandfather Henry Hollands was a stoker in the RN and part of the crew that sailed HMCS NIOBE from Portsmouth England to Halifax arriving in that city October 21st, 1910.

 

Fred Hollands' father, also named Fred Hollands, joined the RCNVR during the Second World War and served in HMCS NOOTKA, HMCS IROQUOIS and HMCS SKEENA and his uncle, Frank Hollands, also served in the Navy during the Second World War.

 


 

HOLLANDS, Frederick Donald - On the morning of December 18, 2023, Frederick Donald Hollands passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

 

Fred was born on December 14, 1944, in London, Ontario. Growing up in rural Ontario, Fred joined the Navy at age 18 and explored the world. After Fred was discharged from the Navy in 1970, he moved to Calgary, Alberta, where he met his first wife Gwen. They were married in 1971, and spent their lives raising their three sons before retiring on an acreage just outside of Wetaskiwin, Alberta. Sadly, Gwen passed away after nearly fifty years together, but Fred was fortunate to find love once again. He married his new wife, Toni, in a small ceremony in Wetaskiwin in February, 2023.

 

Fred had a sparkle about him. He made friends easily, loved his family and spent his time with his many, many projects. He mastered his craft as a heavy duty mechanic, and through his life was an avid reader. His quick wit and his love of life will forever be part of his legacy.

 

Fred was predeceased by his first wife, Gwen; sister, Jane, and is survived by his wife, Toni; his sons, Michael (Michelle), Fred (Jenell), and Andrew (Mirielle); siblings, Ken (Linda), Harry (Cindy) and Grace; and his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 

A Celebration of Life and interment will be held in the spring in rural Wetaskiwin. Service details to follow at a later date.

 

We have appreciated all the condolences and kind thoughts during this time.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (200, 325 Manning Road NE, Calgary AB T2E 2P5.

 


 

Ships served in:

HMCS GATINEAU

HMCS RESTIGOUCHE

HMCS FRASER

HMCS PROVIDER

 

Fred Hollands

HMCS Cornwallis - 1962

Fred Hollands playing guitar

Fred Hollands playing a game of cards while waiting for the laundry to dry

 


 

Crossed the Bar Index

 

HOME PAGE     SHIP INDEX      CONTACT