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Note: Born at Rockleigh, Parish of Rockford, Essex. Had hazel coloured eyes.
Emmigrated to NZ as a young man, between 1929 and 1936, not known when, and ended up as an itinerant piano repairer and tuner. Married Ena on Dec 19 1936 with Ena's sister Thelma Grace Townley as bridesmaid and A L Harris (possibly #1050) as best man. Eventually set up own business, Piano Services Ltd, in George St. PN. (owned property) then moved to the Square, PN, where he was in business until his retirement when son Tony bought the business.
Fred was part of the NZ Expeditionary Force in the Second World war in the Pacific, based on Guadalcanal. His Embarkation was 1 July 1942 to 31 Dec 1942 at Hamilton. His service no. was 606105, Private, in the 35th Battalion. His address was given as 183 Ferguson St., Palmerston North. During the war the family moved to 6 David Street, PN. In about 1950 they moved to 201 Fitzherbert Avenue, PN. He also built a small holiday house in Waitahanui, Taupo, which was on Maori lease land.
After retirement he and Ena built a house at Waitarere Beach where they lived until Ena's death in Nov 1978. Shortly after that he sold the house and decided to live in Australia but that was short lived. He came back to NZ and started in business first as Silly Sams (in Auckland) and then Friendly Freds (Taupo) - bargain shops. It was here that he lost all his money, sold the Taupo house, and moved to Mangakino where an old friend and ex employee lived, Ray Trownson.
Over the years Fred always remained an avid horse racing fan. He owned many horses over the years - some winners! He used to go to the track early every morning for workout with the horses. Even right to the last he was still placing bets at the TAB.
Died at Mangakino Rest Home, NZ, from Diabetes Melitus and Gastric Carcinoma, a recluse and penniless. Was cremated at Palmerston North, NZ, and ashes are in same plot as his wife Ena, Block Q Row 17, Plot 63 Kelvin Grove.
New passport A198090 issued 23 Feb 1982 to replace lost passport R308714 issued 5 April 1973.
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