FREDERICK WILLIAM TAYLOR

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

FREDERICK WILLIAM TAYLOR October 22, 1937 - November 15, 2014 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Fred Taylor. Fred will be missed by brothers George (Bernice), Robert (Joan) of Vancouver and his best friend Vailla Hoggan. He will be lovingly remembered by nieces Franceen of Toronto, Ellen (Andrew), Janice (Bruce) and Shannon (Frank) of Calgary, nephews Glen (Rose), Blake of Vancouver, Ryan (Christina) of Vancouver plus 10 great-nieces and nephews and one great-great-niece. His consistent support and encouragement was felt by all. Fred was a well-respected dedicated educator in the Winnipeg School Division serving as a teacher, coach, vice principal and as principal of Gordon Bell High School retiring in 1991. Fred was instrumental in completing a multi-purpose athletic recreation area within the Gordon Bell property. From his humble beginnings in the North End of Winnipeg, Fred excelled as an athlete pitching fastball in the highly competitive Winnipeg Senior A Mens Fastball League. He was honored to enter the Manitoba Softball Hall of Fame on two occasions. The first induction was in 2004 as a player in the Team category with Kiewel Seals/Manitoba Clothing between 1959 - 1964. The second induction was in 2014 in the Athlete category as a dominating orthodox pitcher in the 1950's, 60's and 70's. Fred and his colleague George Phillips believed rural Manitoba students should have the opportunity for access to track and field coaching similar to those in Winnipeg. During summer vacation, the two teachers set out in a rickety old VW bus visiting many rural communities to conduct track and field training camps. Due to the success of the summer program, a permanent home for these training camps was established at the International Peace Gardens with sponsorship from the Royal Canadian Legion Sports foundation in 1962. Since its inception, the camp has grown and developed into one of North America's top athletic camps for school-aged children. Upon retirement Fred became focused on golf, becoming an active member of the Niakwa Golf and Country Club. One of his proudest moments was winning the prestigious Black Jacket Tournament in 2010. He was fortunate to extend his golf season by becoming a snowbird in Mesa, Arizona. Fred enjoyed taking photographs of the desert landscape, countless hours reading and many "Happy Hours" with friends. Cremation has taken place and a private celebration of his life was held. The family wishes to extend many thanks to the staff of both CancerCare and Palliative Care for their compassion for Fred. If friends so desire, donations may be made to Children's Heritage Fund Gordon Bell Greenspace Lighting Project 1577 Wall Street, Winnipeg, MB R3E 2S5, the Winnipeg Public Library 251 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB or CancerCare 109-675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 22, 2014