Date of Birth: February 3, 1946
Date of Death: October 23, 2025
On Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, following a lengthy battle with kidney disease, Frederick
Peter Retzlaff joined his soulmate of 50 years, Patricia Dawyne Retzlaff, in heaven. Born Feb. 3, 1946, Fred’s legacy for resilience, kindness, strength and, above all, humour will live on through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Fred was a huge sports enthusiast, which included hockey, football and basketball, but his favourite pastime was cheering on the Blue Jays. Left to cheer for the Jays are daughters Dana (Murray) and Trishia (Blair); son Christopher (Barb); 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Fred left his mark wherever he went and took great pride in his leadership roles, most recently with Crop Insurance and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. He was a mentor to many people and well-respected by those who worked with him or for him.
Your stories, your laughter and your wisdom are already dearly missed. You left a little bit of yourself behind in all who knew you and took a big part of our hearts with you when you left.
There will be no public funeral service. Memorial donations may be made to Make-A-Wish Canada.
Arrangements were entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home, Melville.
Though your voice is now silent,
Your presence lingers near,
In every laugh, in every smile,
In memories we hold dear.
You taught us strength and kindness,
You showed us how to live,
With gentle hands and open hearts,
So much love you had to give.
The world feels dim without you,
Yet your light will always stay,
Guiding us through darkest nights,
And brightening each new day.
Forever in our hearts you rest,
Though parted, never gone,
Your legacy of love and grace
Will carry us along.
