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Written by Nino Campitelli

November 6, 2014

I grew up with the family of Uncle Tony and Zia Amelia (Fred, John, Bruno, Mary and Vira parents).  We lived next door to them because Uncle Tony and my father Emilio were brothers. So when I arrived in Canada Fred was already 1 (one ) year old. We played many games together and since he was the youngest of John and myself he would always get the shortest end of the stick, but we had fun. Our parents bought a horse to do farm work and it would always be an argument who was going to ride him.  

In the winter time we would go across Kennedy Rd. into Rutherford's  farm and scrape the snow of the ice so we could do some pleasure skating and play shinny hockey. After we were frozen to the point of not feeling our feet anymore we would go into the house get a severe talking to from our parents and then get our feet soaked in warm water. The sting and hurt would make us cry but Fred would sniff and a tear would fall but he would not let out a peep.

After our playing in the summertime and skating in the winter time we eventually get into trouble and me alone against John and Fred it would always be my fault therefore I would get the licking, but we grew up as brothers and not 1st cousins. My father's family and Uncle Toni's family to this day have always been very close.

In the summer time my father with Uncle Toni would get together and give me and Fred a bald head, we would ask why the bald head? The answer we would get was, "when your hair grows back in it would strengthen the hair roots so you will not be bald like us" ( my father and Uncle Toni were bald). Well when Fred and I got to be in our early 20s we got bald. You explain this.

Fred and I were always in competition, my wife would have a child and Margret would have one, he finally got one up on me because my wife got a miscarriage and Margret did not so Fred ended up with five children and I four. This went on for the grandchildren as well, but that wasn't enough it went on with the great grand children too but I had to give up something went missing.

When our children were small my family with Fred and his family would go on picnics, Port Dalhousie Beach, Provincial Park in Lake Simcoe, Woodland Park and so on, Later Fred and I went on various vacations, Trinidad, Mexico. We ran races,he would win a bottle of Cognac one year I would win the next. He had short legs but could he motor.

Fred and I  invested in properties and mortgages, he showed me how to fight in court , we fought the city, the Town of Ajax, the Environment Government and developers, some we won and some we lost, but fight we did.  I am going to miss him a lot.  

Nino Campitelli

Marvin Singer

December 11, 2013

I was fortunate enough to have Fred as a friend for close to 40 years and to be his legal counsel.  It was always a pleasure representing Fred because of his great love and enthusiasm for the law whether it was closing a real estate transaction or preparing a contract.  In particular he enjoyed the thrust and  parry  of being in Court.  He was very successful in his Court actions, mostly because he had the ability to identify the legal issues and his intense preparation.

One case comes to mind.  In the mid-1980s Fred was involved in a trial in Niagara Falls relating to truck maintenance. He lost but strongly felt he was in the right and the Court was in error.  He instructed me to prepare and file a Notice of Appeal.  This was done and I ordered a trial Transcript.  Upon receipt Fred scoured and analyzed it at great length as was his custom.

The day of the hearing arrived.  The Prosecutor was a very senior lawyer at the Ministry of Transportation whom Fred had known for years through the trucking industry.  They greeted each other warmly.

The Judge started the proceedings by making some preliminary remarks.  He stated he had read the Transcript and had some concerns   with the Judgment.  In particular, he said there was a finding contained in one sentence that troubled him.  He asked if the Appellant knew which sentence he was referring to.  Fred immediately stood up without hesitation and with great confidence read out a sentence buried in the Transcript.  I think the  Judge was  taken aback at the speed in which Fred had answered.  He asked the Prosecutor for his comments.

The lawyer smiled at Fred, turned to the Judge and said he would bow to Mr. Campitelli’s keen insight  into the case.  Fred had won again but this time he had won before the  hearing was 15 minutes old.

I will sorely miss Fred and all the exciting legal adventures we shared.


Marvin
  

The Cottage that created many memories...

December 9, 2013
by Ron B

Fred enjoyed the Blue Jays

December 9, 2013
by Ron B

Sweet Nono

December 5, 2013

I'm a very close friend of Fred's grandaughters Nadia and Lisa. I can't remember the exact time I met Nadia's Nono, but I'm sure it was at one of the many family gatherings held at Judy and Anthony's house. My story has nothing on some of the others shared here, but it shows how kind hearted and sweet a man he was. 


I was at Nadia's house for one of the above mentioned family dinners a few years ago, and I remember at the time I was having a really bad day and feeling like I wasn't looking my best. Nono saw me and said "Your hair is so beautiful and dark, I've never seen hair that dark before! It's gorgeous!" It sounds silly, but he brought my spirits up that day and it was just what I needed. 


Nadia and Lisa spoke of him all the time in the highest regard. About how he was such a hard worker, about how generous he was, and most of all, about how much he loved and cared for his family. I have truly never met a family like the Campitelli's, and I know that, just like they always do, they will get through this loss together. 

Caitlin    
 

 

December 5, 2013

I've worked with Fred since 1990.  He was quite a challenge for a safety & compliance person, but I usually managed to get through to him, often by yelling louder than he did!

He was quite a character, and a very intelligent man, with his finger on the pulse of everything that went on at J&F, but he also took the time to enquire about everyone's family, or to listen to a personal problem and offer advise and help in any way - and to crack a few jokes or tell a few stories.  He had great laugh and a huge enjoyment of life and people and family.

Thanks Fred, we miss you.

Special special man

December 4, 2013
Ever since the first day I found out you would be off work sick I started to miss your smile, your jokes and your oh so special sense of humour. I even missed you calling me 10 times a day to ask me how a part could possibly cost so much? "Was I trying to put you out of business?". I will never forget a day the second week I worked at Durham Mack and this who I thought was a gruff looking man came and sat on the edge of my desk and said "well sweetheart how do you like it here?" Startled I said I don't think I will make it here, this place is crazy? He smiled, laughed and patted me on the shoulder and said I hear you are good at what you do. Give us a chance, we get a little excited around here sometimes, but some of us are really good people I promise. Little did I know at that time Fred was the definition of "good people", he truly cared about his employees and spent the time to get to know people. He would talk about his family with so much pride and love, then always, without fail, ask about mine. Twelve years later I still work here, thanks in part to that first meeting. Rest in peace Fred, you will be deeply missed, always respected and forever loved.

CARING EMPLOYER

December 4, 2013

Fred always encouraged and supported his employees.
Fred shared how he accomplished his Financial Success, not intending to brag,
just giving free financial advice, not to mention free legal advice.
Never too busy to engage us with a joke or a story and inquire about our families.
Constanly sharing his love, pride and appreciation for his family.
He is blessed. We all miss you Fred, "bon voyage"

In memory of my Nonno

December 4, 2013

I have many fond memories of my Nonno, most of which include the many trips that he took me on,  Aruba, Barbados, St. Martin's and Italy.  Yes I am a lucky grand daughter.  I especially remember St. Martin's because I got to spend alot of time with him playing cards and just relaxing on the beach.  This proved to be quite interesting since we didn't know that half the beach was bathing suits optional.  Nonno made sure I stayed on the clothing side but we did get a laugh at watching all the people strut their stuff along the shore. He took us out to dinner and unknowingly I choose to eat lobster not realizing that it was by the pound, and of course they served me the biggest one.  I felt bad but surprisingly Nonno wasn't upset.  (I did eat the whole thing) 

My favourtie thing about Nonno is that he always made me feel pretty and special( I think I reminded him of my Nonni)  He always ask about my school and was proud when I told him my grades.  Nonno was a generous grandfather and I will miss him.  

Love you always 
Alisha xo
 

A Great Man !

December 3, 2013

i have known Fred for over 30 years, when i first started working at J&F I thought, this man is pretty crusty,this is not going to work, and as time went on, i realized I was so wrong. Fred was always fair, and more often than not, more than fair, if you deserved it, he gave it to you, but if you did a good job, he acknowleged you also. As time went on things were good, did the court scene a few times, as others have also. When driving was finished on a particular job i was on, i was asked if i wanted to help in the office, and this is when i became more aware of the man. He was always asking, "how s it going  buddy", and he always made you feel at ease and cared about people. Fred taught me many things over the years, how to make money in real estate, how to lose at the casino, hehe.He always treated people the way he wanted to be treated, with respect. He was a very proud and confident person, he would never ask one to do something that he would not do himself. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work for him and to know him. He was very proud of his family and what he had accomplished in life. i miss his morning rounds,as he came in my office most every morning, to see how things were going. Fred is one of kind, after him, the mould was broken. i will miss him immensley, but will always be in my heart. God Bless you Fred.

Al

My Nonno

December 3, 2013

I have the great honour of being named after my Nonno, even though it is not a common name and people are usually shocked when I tell them " yes my name is Alfredo like the sauce".  They never forget it just as I will never forget my Nonno the strongest man I've ever known.  Strong in so many ways strong work ethic, strong family values, and strong vocally!!! Along with his hard battle with cancer, he was strong for us even when he was in pain.  I share many common interests with my Nonno the love of the garden, good with money and my joy of gambling (along with his good looks ha ha).  I had the pleasure of spending time with him this summer, we spent time together driving to the cottage and to the casino. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to go to the casino with my Nonno, sit beside him at the black jack table and just enjoy the moment.  I was very fortunate to have done this with him and we both ended up winning!!!  I have his passion for business and can only hope to have some of his success in my future.  I love you Nonno and will miss you dearly.

P.S. I will try to keep the name going for you (once I'm married of course)

Your grandson
Alfredo 

Greatest Boss

December 3, 2013

How do I pay tribute to a boss that has been an integral part of my life for 30 years. A boss who has contributed to my growth and development from an impressionable, young Jamaican girl to a confident Canadian woman.  Fred I thank you.  I will always miss your presence and the joy and laughter you brought to the office.  Hilarious stories of your life and your heroics in court still make me smile.  My hips may disagree, but I do miss the coffee truck treats we shared daily.

Fred you are irreplaceable.  Your kind deeds, willingness to help and your tenacity have left a lasting legacy.  So proud to have had you as my boss.  You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten.

Delores  

What a special man!!!

December 3, 2013

It has been a pleasure working with Fred for so many years, whenever you saw him he always made you feel important. He always took time to say hello to everyone and made all the people around him feel like part of his extended family.

He is one of the most memorable people I have ever met. He always had a warm smile and a genuine interest in each and everyones health and families.

Fred, you will be truly missed by all. I feel extremely gratefull to have known you and I will always treasure my memories of you.

God bless you Fred, forever in your families hearts until you meet again.

Tina







December 3, 2013

I have many fond memories of Fred and so many stories he has told me over the years.    Over the 10 years I have known him I never got tired of hearing all his stories and adventures he had through out his life even if they were told a few times before.  I loved listening to him tell me about his life growing up on the farm you could see in his eyes how he loved it and how he loved his garden. I have heard some stories that have left me shocked and some that have left me laughing so hard.
He always made a point to stop by the office to say hi to everyone. Fred always made a point to come over to me and remind me how he loved long hair and that I should never get it cut while he would pull on my pony tail.  

Fred had reminded me so much of my grandfather they had so many similarities (like long hair) that talking with him and hearing his stories made me feel like I was sitting with my own grandfather.  I want to thank you for sharing your life stories with me and I will always remember them.

You will be deeply missed

Thank you Fred for being you!!

Lessons from Experience.

December 3, 2013

Hi,

the first time I met Fred was in a courtroom approximately 15 years ago (1998). i was 29 years old. We had about 100 trucks on the road at the time and as you can imagine we were  dealing with the Ministry of Transport (MTO) often.   Being Yonge and inexperienced with it all, i watch Fred essentially take charge of the courtroom and his case. I was so impressed. Fred took that case so seriously ( i can"t remember what the infraction was but i remember that  it was not something too serious). i wactched him carefully and learned so much that it shaped me and the way our  company handles traffic infractions and all legal mattters even today.

i did not know Fred before that day but i new we did business with his dealership. (we bought new trucks from him) So i called him a day or so later and asked him for advice on court cases. Fred wasted no time giving me direction on how to handle various issues regarding MTO.  He was so nice. I remember him giving me a tremendous amount of advice that i knew came from his years experiences and for that i am truly grateful. 

We now have over 150 trucks and we take every Case very seriously. I will always remember Fred and what he did my me and our company.


i have since become friends with his son Lenny and look forward to a great long term friendship.


Thank you Fred.

With Love and Heartfelt Sympathies,

Pat Lamanna
The G&L Group         


        

December 2, 2013

When we think of Fred it is always of happy times together.  We consider ourselves so blessed to have had Fred in our lives for such a long time.  He was a great friend and one that we could always rely on  no matter what.  Holidays together, dances, casino trips (a few).  Fred loved to dance and when "Celebrate" was playing, Fred was the first one up dancing and having a great time.  How lucky we were to have him in our lives - he was a good guy.  We will always think of him fondly and with love. 

Fred & Rose Balluch

Blessed

December 2, 2013

I remember sitting around Uncle Freddy and Auntie Marg's, dining table after Carla had passed away. All of their children and grandchildren were there and the house was busy with food and love  (not uncommon :). I sat there and soaked it all in. I looked to Uncle Freddy and his eyes were brimmed with tears as he was looking from family member to family member. I smiled and said...." You may be sad, Uncle Freddy, but as you look around, think of how blessed you are."  He smiled and replied..." That's what I'm doing."
Years later, after his diagnosis, I was, once again, blessed to be sharing a meal with Uncle Freddy, Auntie Marg and most of their children and grandchildren. I looked down the table and Uncle Freddy was once again looking from family member to family member with tears brimming in his eyes. There were no words spoken this time, but I knew what he was doing. He was blessed to have such an amazing family.... and he always knew it.
Rest in Peace, Uncle Freddy. Love Angie

Beaming

December 1, 2013
My heart aches, while at the same time, a vision appears, it is of Uncle Freddy seeing Carla again..... he is beaming, and at peace once more.

TO MY GREAT UNCLE

December 1, 2013

I'm Olivia, Antoinette & Mike's eldest daughter - Vira is my Noni, we will miss you. Please say "Hi" to Biz Noni and Grandma Sandra for me. I'll miss you.

December 1, 2013

Nonno ordered the Ahi Tuna that night, and it came out rare (as it should). Unacceptable to our Nonno, he demanded it be cooked longer, to which the chef refused. After huffing and puffing and sending it back twice, he got his overcooked, chewy tuna. Just the way he liked it :)

December 1, 2013

What a passionate man. Passionate about his family, his work, his life. He taught me there were no short cuts in this world. "You want something in life, work hard, you'll get it. Simple," he would say. Words which have inspired me everyday to pursue my dreams. Dreams that would never have been realized if it wern't for his hard work, scraifices and love for his family. 

I wish I could have been around more these past few years to spend time with him. But I gain comfort in the fact that I know I am making him proud. It always made me laugh when colleagues of mine would call me crazy, psycho and nuts for working as hard as I do. They would say "how can you do this, where do you come from???" I'd reply "If you knew my dad and my grandfather, you'd understand where I come from." I get my work ethic from these two gentlemen. And all though I am no business man, and god knows I ain't no farmer, we all have the same philosphy in life and we are all perfectionists (in our own way). As there son and grandson, Ive learned that If i am going to do something I am going to strive to be the best at it. You only get one life, make yourself proud and make your family proud.

His honor, his perseverance, his love, lives on in me, and all his grandchildren. We are so lucky to have him as our Nonno.

Your grandson/MD,
Marco

ps Ill be looking for you at graduation :)

Janellan Terrace

November 30, 2013

What an amazing street....that's where it all began.  Its the footprint that holds my most favourite memories growing up.  You can't say Janellan without somehow thinking about the Campitelli's and Mr.Camp.  

Your blue pick-up truck heading up the street every morning...and your wave as you passed by us on your way back home in the evenings while we played street hockey.  

You saw me grow up, and were there for every big moment Ive had, both good and bad.

Our road trip to Peterborough to fight my ticket was full of life lessons!  

Your never to old or too set in your ways to change...no matter how afraid you are...and also, family is MOST important.

You rocked the "flat cap" way before the flat cap was cool.

I will remember you Mr.Camp and all our family dinners together...

I see you in your blue pick up....driving home....

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!!

God Bless you!
Johnny Messina


 

November 30, 2013

Stories. I have thousands. Some good, some bad, some hilarious... even some illegal, that i would never be able to write on a website.  Nonno was a 'like me how I am or get the hell outta here' kinda guy.  He taught us our invaluable work ethic, family importance, how to be cheap (i rebelled against that one in a huge way), how to cut grass and pick vegetables, how to gamble and win, how to always argue with the cop that pulled you over and to call him the second you had car trouble.  He made sure his grandchildren always had jobs, usually employed by one of the family companies, that the girls always kept their hair long (because thats the way he liked it, we didn't know why) and that we never wore ripped jeans in front of him, cause if you did you'd definitely regret it.  He was a hard ass there's no doubt but he was the most kind and generous person as well.  Being a farmer and working like he did he knew the importance of food and not to waste any of it.  It just wasn't allowed. Anyone who ever had a meal with him at a restaurant could attest to this.  In saying that, a story about one meal comes to mind...

I was lucky enough to spend my 21st birthday in Las Vegas with the entire family. Probably one of the best birthdays ever! We all knew the drill, you eat with Nonno, and he's paying, you finish EVERYTHING.  And i mean everything. On the last night we were there we all went to, what some might say, is the best restaurant in Vegas.  We had a private room and were served family style.  We had fish flown in from Italy that very day and excellent wine, probably 5 or 6 courses of delicious food.  One of the best meals I've had ever.  As the evening was winding down the gentlemen asked how everything was and set the bill down in front of my grandfather. Keep in mind, this is a man who spends hours at the high rollers tables at the casino. He went pale. We knew we were in trouble. There was some remaining food and desserts left on the table, we all scrambled to grab the leftover food and started eating like we were starving even though we couldn't breath. "The water, you drink all that water too," he said.  It was a team effort, we left that restaurant with not a drop of water or morsel of food on the table.  And Nonno paid. 

For all of the things mentioned above, to all of the family vacations, support and love, thank you Nonno xo

Farmer Fred

November 30, 2013
This photo reminds me of my "roots" and what initially united me with my father in law; as farmers connected to the earth. For dad gardening has been a source of peace and joy, particularly when he has been able to share the fruits of his labour. His garden would not only feed the immediate family, but everyone else that he included by his generosity to be part of his large extended family. He has I think by nature and nuture passed on this love of gardening to his children and his grandchildren. I remember another picture of Alfredo busy helping Nonno in the garden picking pumpkins that were bigger than he was. Another picture that comes to mind are of some of the grandchildren that were more inclined to mischief than industry and it shows our crazy kids hanging from one of the apple trees. One of my favourite stories that mum would often encourage dad to tell us was when he was 13 years old and about when he worked for Mr Bicks of the Bicks pickles. Mr Bicks came to love dad so much,and having no children of his own, he approached Nonna Amalia to ask if he could adopt Fred. He hoped his promise to send dad to the best universities in Canada would entice her. He was lucky that Nonno Tony was not there because he may have found himself to be at the receiving end of the boot of a very feisty and proud Italian man. It was for me a coincidence that my own family moved to a small 25 acre farm in Courtland Ontario when I was 13 and we grew cucumbers for Mr. Bicks. I understand the beauty of getting tired from doing a hard day of physical labour. I did not fall in love with farm work quite the same way that dad did but if my mom gave me a choice, I chose hoeing the fields over house cleaning any day of the summer. I learned an important lesson about the beauty of being tired from doing a hard days work under a sunny sky and I share that appreciation with dad. I also learned from both my mom and Fred how to take pride in whatever kind of work that you might have to do. An opportunity to have a university education has been a luxury I am amazed that my parents were able to allow my siblings and I to afford and I am grateful for it. However, I know that my father in law has accomplished so much without that fortune. He did that by making the most of all his God given gifts, never looking back with regret on his past limitations, and not being afraid of hard work. Most importantly the lesson I learned was that whatever work you choose to do, do it with all your heart to the best of your ability. That is enough. My father in law makes me proud to be a part of his family. I have learned through working with him in one of the family companies, how he has been able to extend his kindness and compassion to people that extend far beyond his family, touching on so many other lives I had never known. Xoxo dad by your example you have taught me to strive to be a better daughter and mother, and better person than I thought was in me. Judy

Zizi Fred

November 30, 2013

There are SOOOOOO many stories from being chased and yelled at because Linda and I were doing something wrong, from getting a sliver removed from my butt after sitting on the wooden rocking chair at the cottage, from travelling to Italy for the first time, to going to court to "get the bad guy" and going on road trips with his truck! LOL

Focusing on the Italy trip - what a brave man to take two hormonal 16 year old girls to Italy on his own. Wow, looking back, he was an extremely brave man! I remember going into what seemed to be 1000 churches and complaining the entire time, this is also the trip where "turkey lips" was established (not sure if Linda remembers this), and we met every single person that had Campitelli or Procaccini blood running thru their vains! My goodness, at the time I didn't appreciate it but now looking back it was the best experience. I met so many people that I would never have had met if it weren't for my Uncle Fred. I just hope that my kids get to have this same experience with a family member some day. It saddens me to think that the "Big Guy" is taking such a wonderful man from us. I'm grateful to have all those memories. Thanks Zizi Fred for the life teachings! I love you. XXXXXXXXXX   

My Nono,

November 30, 2013

I've never met a harder worker or anyone more generous than this man* FAMILY always comes first, don't waste anything kinda man* ..although this was a few birthday's ago, when I turn 75 I only hope I can have this kind of fire in me ... so blessed to be his grandchild <3

La Cucina di Campitelli

November 30, 2013

On this night in Sardegna we created our very own private restaurant. I think it was Marcus who stumbled upon this rooftop view ontop of the villas we were staying in.  We decided to surprise Nonnie & Nono by setting up the rooftop for dinner.  We all know how Nono LOVES his homecooked meals & we really wanted to do something special! We carried up enough tables & chairs so that we could all sit comfortably.  We set the tables beautifully & enjoyed a delicious HOMECOOKED meal & a few bottles of wine as the sun set over this stunning view.  As the day turned into night we continued to enjoy the night under a bright moon & candlelight.  I love this memory & I love that I get to share such an amazing memory with my whole family.  The night was euphoric.  

Fred "The Lawyer" take two

November 29, 2013

Almost every single employee that worked for J&F or the J&F group of companies that had a drivers licence and had a run in with the police (via a ticket)have Very fond memories of Fred in court.  I unfortuneatley never had that pleasure!  However, I got the priviliged honour and pleasure of Fred mentoring me in his ways around traffic court and small claims court.  Fred had the patience with me, like he did with so many to take the time and show me what he did, how he did it, and why he did it.  The knowledge, and business skills Fred has graciously shared with me over the many years will never be forgotten and never be taken for granted.  For that I thank you Fred. (Fred PS I still havent lost in small claims court)!

Carolina was talking about a run in Fred had with a Crown Prosecuter......well that prosecuter just happened to be a friend of mine, and I can tell you that even though Trish threw the book at Fred she truly respected what he was doing, and why he was doing it.  She knew Fred had a heart of gold and was trying to help.  To this day Trish still asks everytime I see her if I still hang around with him!  I always proudly reply OF COURSE!   Funny she doesnt give me a hard time in court.......  

When I reflect back on all the years, all the arguments, all the laughs I had with Fred it always comes back to the same thing.  Fred was an overally generous Person with a huge heart.  It would not matter the circumstances, or the problems you were facing he would always try to help (sometimes to his own detriment).  Fred was so family oriented that the first question he asked me was always how are the kids.  I think that summs it up nicely!!!!!!!

Fred you have changed, helped, and affected so many people in your life there are to many to count.  I am blessed and thankful for what you have given me, and will always cherish it. You will be leaving a legacy behind to be proud of, and one I am sure wont be matched in my lifetime!!!!

Thank you for being FRED     

Zizi Freddy, My Mentor

November 29, 2013

Ok, so you all wonder why I am so great at what I do (!!!) and why I’m always so miserable and I’m a big “B” sometimes.  Well… I have Zizi Freddy to thank for that!!!

A long time ago, when I graduated from University, (I was 5 at the time), I went to work at J & F Trucking sitting next to my dad doing dispatch.…. Well that didn’t last too long as you can imagine!  My dad and I weren’t known for how well we got along with one another and to this day it’s amazing that he can still come to my house for Sunday dinner and tell me the dinner I cooked was delicious!   Anyway, next thing I knew, Fred needed me in the administration because his “girls” were all starting to have babies and as luck would have it, I got to work for Fred.  I didn’t know at the time if that was better or worse!

Well I had no choice but to agree because he signed my cheques.   So I became a student of “Fred’s School of Business” and he started me on a long journey of learning about the business and how it should be run.  “Don’t pay taxes, be cheap and don’t give in!!!”  The three cardinal rules that will stay with me forever. 

All joking aside, Fred and I had our moments.  He was the older, patriarchal, do it my way kind of guy and I was a girl trying to make good in a man’s world.  I pushed against the establishment but at the same time I soaked up everything Fred taught me.  I argued with the best of them and got my courage from Fred as he showed me that you never back down…..even if you are wrong.  Once you take a side, you own it.  He didn’t care what impression he gave, he wasn’t ashamed of where he came from or where he was going.  He was Fred.  He learned in the school of hard knocks and he swung his weight around like an Olympic wrestler.  He taught me that you are who you think you are.  He was mean and he was ornery but that was just the surface.  Underneath was a brilliant statistician and business man whose only desire was to succeed, for himself, but more for his family, and that included his brothers and sisters, his nephews and nieces and anyone who wanted to call themselves family. 

In spite of the tough exterior, Fred taught me about family and compassion.  What you do is all about your family and for your family. You protect them, you fight for them and you stand behind them.  You do it all for them, not for yourself.  Their accomplishments are your successes.   His heart is as big as the sky.  He taught me everything I know and when he realized I was ready to graduate from his “school”, I could tell that I had made it.  My greatest accomplishment came when Fred asked me to head up Durham Truck and never even questioned my ability to do so.  It was expected, he was a good teacher and he knew it.  And I knew it.  I am successful because he gave me the tools, he gave me the courage and he gave me unquestionable support….a little girl in what once was a man’s world.

Love is a loaded word.  It comes in many forms and means many things.  Fred loves me and I love him. Unquestioned, unequivocal. Enough said.

Emily

November 29, 2013

I’ve know Uncle Fred my entire life. I’m pretty sure he started my nick name  “Barbouch”.  I had many summer night sleepovers at Linda’s when I was a kid and most of the time we would have breakfast with Uncle Fred in the morning.  

When I was 20 years old I started working in the family business and at first I sat in my Dad’s office which was right next to Uncle Fred’s and I’d overhear a lot of his phone conversation and he would always be laughing and sharing stories with whomever he was talking to.  They would always make me smile and/or blush!  When we opened the Dealership I moved to the opposite side of the building, but I still saw Uncle Fred often as he’d like to make his rounds to say hello to everyone.  He would always want to know “How’s the family, how’s Matt, and how are the kids”?  There was never a time that he didn’t stop to ask me those questions.   

The amazing thing that I’ve learned and observed from working with my Dad, Uncle Fred, and Uncle John and of course the many other family member here for the past 18 years, is that no matter how tough the day is, even if the brother’s were screaming at the top of their lungs at each other one minute they were laughing the next.  They never let business come between their strong family bond and that is such an important lessons to be learned.  

Love you Uncle Fred,   Love Barb aka  "Barbouch"

Uncle Fred, the family lawyer

November 29, 2013

I will always laugh at the time that Uncle Fred took me to fight my first (of many) speeding ticket(s). He took me in his pick-up, and he wore a suit. He was so proud that everyone knew him at the court house. He knew exactly what he was doing, since he did it ALL the time. On the drive there, he told me all of his stories. He told me about how he got into trouble once in the US when he acted as the agent for a driver, because you have to be licensed to be an agent in the US, which he wasn't... so he got caught, and tried to claim ignorance (which he wasn't). He also told me all the other times that he went to fight speeding tickets for employees, and won. He told me he always wanted to be a lawyer. And for our family, he was.

Just as we approached the court house, he let slip that he hoped one Crown Attorney wasn't working because, just this one time, he had a bad experience. Well... it wasn't just kind of bad. It was REALLY bad. Once the lady saw who was representing me, she thought I deserved the entire ticket. She yelled at Uncle Fred in the foyer, calling him a fraudster. Long story short, there would be no negotiating my ticket, that day. Full penalty, courtesy of Uncle Fred, the family "agent."

On the ride back to work, Uncle Fred was MAD, swearing that the prosecutor was crooked. But he still bought me veal on a bun for lunch, and told me next time we would win... and there were many "next times."

Uncle Fred was very happy when he found out I got into law school. He always cursed my Nonno, that he wouldnt let my mom go to law school - to which my Nonno would regretfully agree. Both he and my nonno were so happy, in fact, that they promised me an office at J&F. Right next to them.

Just like Nonnie, he loved that his grandchildren (which he often referred to me as) were getting "professional" jobs, leaving little credit for himself, and the legacy that he and his brothers had created for all of us. The legacy that has allowed us to live the lives that we do. I am so proud to be a part of that history, and I will always keep the memories of my Uncle very close to my heart.

I love you Uncle Fred, and wish you peace in the coming days.
Carolina

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