Obituary of Fred Grakist

Fred Grakist passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at the Ottawa Hospital, General Campus following a brief illness. He was 94 years of age.

Fred grew up in Montreal and graduated from Montreal High School in 1949. Soon after, he married Nora Young at Ebenezer Gospel Chapel, now Rosemount Bible Church.  Together they sang duets and in quartets at Youth For Christ and other events.  Fred was involved in his local church during the family’s many moves between Montreal, Toronto and Ottawa.  He was a member of church boards and choirs; a leader with Christian Service Brigade and Pioneer Clubs.

Fred had a 37-year career with Eaton’s in various roles including as a buyer for the catalogue division.  After leaving Eaton’s he opened his own sales agency, selling sporting goods and services to business across Ontario.  Fred was also involved with the Ottawa Police Safety Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) representing Bike-Up Canada.  Following his retirement, he joined Laidlaw/First Student as a school bus driver for 25 years where he enjoyed getting to know the children, their families and school staff.

Whether Fred was cruising around the world or camping across Canada, he loved exploring new things and participating in exciting adventures.  Some of his favourite trips were family holidays in Disney World.

Fred was the proud father of Dawn, Scott (Leslie Blades), and Keith (Erin).  He is preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Nora (1993).

A Celebration of Life will be held at Longfields Community Church (3376 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean) on Saturday, March 29, 2025 for family and close friends.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. and a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ottawa Mission (OttawaMission.com) would be appreciated by the family.