John Charles Freeth

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 87^th 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.