With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Charles Freeth at Brockville General Hospital on May 8, 2024. John is survived by the love of his life, wife and best friend, Marilyn Albert, his children Jim (Sybil Thuns) Freeth, Janet (Dave) Deisley, stepdaughter, Tawnia (Daphné Lahens) Albert and his grandchildren, Henry and Madeline Freeth and Xavier Albert-Lahens.
John was predeceased by his parents Fred and Dorothy (Kalem) Freeth and his first wife, Patricia (Herbert) Freeth.
John began his career at NRC, under the mentorship of George Klein as a proud member of the Engineering team who designed the first electric wheelchair, the bagless cyclonic vacuum and the telescopic antennae among other innovative designs. John and the team could often be seen “testing” the prototype wheelchair on a racecourse they set up in the halls of NRC. He then went on to work at Garrett Engineering, Computing Devices and Leigh Instruments. After leaving Leigh Instruments, he founded ODS Marine with two friends where he worked until the age of 90 when COVID forced him to “stay home”. ODS Marine remains a thriving enterprise under the stewardship of John’s son Jim.
John was an intelligent, innovative and curious fellow. He awoke every day anticipating a new adventure. He was a natural athlete who enjoyed hockey, downhill and water skiing, scuba diving, boating and cycling. To celebrate his 87th birthday, he joined Chris Spring, the Olympic bobsleigh pilot, in a bobsled at the Whistler Sliding Centre and was hurled down the Olympic run at a “screaming” speed. He was thrilled to appear in the Pique Newsmagazine, hailed as the oldest person to enjoy the experience. He was still enjoying his electric tricycle, riding along the St. Lawrence River in Brockville and the Trans Canada Trail until last Fall, at age 92. John loved spending time at his island at McGregor Lake, sharing experiences with family and friends, and he and Marilyn enjoyed wonderful adventures together during their many travels.
In spite of the physical challenges he experienced, he continued to embrace life with zest, and a sparkle in his eye. He never hesitated to swim against the current. We are confident that he will not rest in peace but will enter the pearly gates eager to begin a new adventure.
May your spirit always be at our side John.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), for a Celebration of John’s life on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. For those who wish to make a donation in John's memory you may do so to the Trans Canada Trail or a charity of your choice.
Digital Guestbook
Gayle Ellis
Sue and Bob Rees
We are certainly going to miss you John. We were fortunate to have had you in our lives. We were happy to have been able to be with you during your final hours and to tell you how much we loved you.
Melissa Clark
John was such a very special person. I feel privileged to have known him. My thoughts are with Marilyn.
Brenda Kendall
It was a pleasure to know John and take part in some ski adventures. He was always positive and definitely eager to participate in what life had to offer. He will be missed.
Patti Ellis and Jim Bruce
Saying that John had a full life is an understatement! Not only did he have many accomplishments he also was a person you wanted to try and sit next to at a dinner party. !!
Janet and David Madsen
Our condolences to the Freeth family
After recently re-connecting with Janet and Jim since high school I got to see John and Marilyn again and I’m so glad I did. I remember his smile and how much he loved taking us crazy teenagers skiing every weekend. Hugs
Bill and Dawn Doucet and family
I was very interested in his many many stories. As many as there were they were all interesting to hear.
Our condolences to all who had the pleasure to know him. He will be missed
Ed and Marlane Rule
We send our deepest condolences to Marilyn, Jim, Janet and families. In the past John, Brian and myself were known as the three musketeers at ODS, Scuba Consultants, and Cressi Canada. We all got along so well for 3 partners, always made working a pleasure. John brought great business knowledge and integrity to the businesses. As a true friend John will be missed, Ed and Marlane
Paula Fraser
John was a great man and will be missed by so many. I have so many fond memories of him through the years from Warbonnet, the cottage and skiing. He was truly family to me. I loved him. My deepest sympathies to the family and all who loved him. Love Paula
Anne and Mike Mallon
Sending our love from Salt Lake City. A father’s love for his daughter can give her tremendous strength. Janet is a kind, generous, smart and caring person because of her father. Take comfort in your wonderful memories of your father.
I wish to express my deepest sympathy. The Bible gives the comforting hope that your loved one will come to life again on a beautiful earth when death will be no more in John 5:28, 29 and Revelation 21:4.