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
Carol Doucet
Helen Davies Papadaki
Heartfelt condolences to all the family from your cousins from Wales and Greece. Although we never met, John sounded like an amazing man who is sure to be missed by you all. May he rest in peace.
Jill Milks
My heartfelt sympathy to Jim and Janet and to all of the Freeth family in your time of loss and sorrow. May treasured memories and stories of John's life and legacy bring you peace and comfort.
Diana G. Johnson
What a Fantastic Ride!! love cousin Diana
Fraser family (Bob/Norman & Susan/Donna /Donald)
We are so sorry to hear of our cousin John Freeth's death. We send our deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and friends and especially his wife. We (Bob,Donna,Donald ) have all lost our mate in recent years and we know it sure hurts. The Bible does give us hope of seeing our loved ones again. Jesus said "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out" John 5:28,29. The above will all take place on this earth under God's Kingdom or government we have all prayed for. Love to all - The Fraser family
Hania Grabowski
Rick and I are sending our deepest sympathies to John's family, and in particular to beautiful Marilyn, as well as his always nearby children, Jim and Janet. John was a great and long time friend, going back to diving days in the mid-1970's. Always the consummate gentleman in all aspects of his life. In all the years, I never heard him criticize anyone, or a cross word. As he heads into this new world, we can be sure that he will do so with thoughtful confidence and an inquisitive mind. Happy sailing in your new adventure John. We already miss you.
Hania and Rick.
Sue and Bob Rees
We will miss you John. Huge hugs to the family.
Chris Mōuland
Condolences to the Freeth families , with respect , Chris , Chats Falls G.S.
Gérène Léger-Jaskulski
Deepest condolences Marilyn and family! It was always a pleasure to see you at Lake McGregor.
Judy Faulkner
The Freeth family included me in their frequent ski trips to Gray Rocks and Edelweiss when I was a teenager. John was always sporting a smile and made me feel like I belonged, like I was family. John was fun, encouraging and always happy to help. His perpetually positive energy shines through his children, Jim and Janet. I celebrate his life; his presence was profoundly meaningful to me.
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. John always made me feel welcome during my visits. I always enjoyed the many stories he had to share. Love Carol and family.