It is with great sadness that the family of the late Frederick Thomas Keeping announces his passing at Dr. Charles L LeGrow Long Term Care with his loving family by his side on Friday, February 9, 2024, at the age of 84. Born in Burnt Islands, Fred was the son of the late John and Lillian (nee Ransome) Keeping.

Fred leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories his wife of 62 years, Elsie (nee Munden) Keeping. Also leaving to mourn, his loving children; Donna (Bruce) Seymour, Tina (Danny) Carter, both of Port aux Basques. His pride and joy, grandchildren, Krystle (James) Collier, Danielle (Lance) Richardson-Prager, Marcus Carter (Nikki Reid), Liam Carter (Rebecca Sheppard); his great grandchildren, Kate Collier, Luke, Faith and Hunter Richardson-Prager.

He also leaves to mourn, brothers and sisters, George Keeping, Brigus, Hughie Keeping, Burnt Islands and Selina Priddle, Isle aux Morts, brothers, and sisters in laws, Ethel Keeping, Ruth Keeping, Linda Keeping, Audrey Crewe, Bert (Eleanor) Munden, Linda (Allan) Cave and Sandra (Gus) King. Also survived by a large circle of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Fred was predeceased by his beloved son Larry in 1982, parents John and Lillian Keeping, mother and father in law, Albert and Clara (Billard) Munden, brothers, Angus, Jim, Ralph, sisters Bessie (Jack) Munden, Juanita (Donald) Skinner, sisters and brothers in laws, Geraldine Keeping, Cindy Keeping, Roy Priddle, Mabel Ferguson, Margo (George) Hayman, Louis Munden and Leonard Crewe.

Fred left his home to begin a seafarer’s life at the age of 17 on the Great Lakes. In 1963 he began work with Marine Atlantic to be closer to home. In 1982, following the death of his son, he left work on the sea to be by his wife’s side on a daily basis, from then until his retirement, he worked as a handyman/carpenter.

Fred enjoyed many activities-helping family, friends and neighbours with fix-it projects, berry picking, hunting and fishing, and playing darts. His greatest passions were listening and dancing to Newfoundland Music, woodworking projects and walking, He would be seen walking in all weathers daily in the downtown area, attempting to bring a smile and crack a joke to anyone he met. Fred and Elsie enjoyed time on their deck looking over the ocean and evening walks, and on nice summer evenings walks to Scott’s Cove Park to enjoy the music and a waltz.

We as a family would like to thank LeGrow LTC Staff for their care and compassion. Special thanks to Keira Richards, Fred’s niece, who went above and beyond in supporting our family through his time at long term care.

In keeping with Fred’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Family and friends may visit Oceanside Funeral Home on Sunday, February 11th from 2:00 – 4:00 & 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Monday, February 12th at 2:00 p.m. from St. James Anglican Church with Rev. Jane Allen officiating, with interment to follow at St. James Anglican Cemetery, Barachois Hill. Flowers graciously accepted, or donations in memory of Fred can be made to St. James Anglican Church, LeGrow L.T.C Unit or charity of one’s choice. Words of comfort can be sent to the family by visiting www.oceansidefh.com