Dejean, Frederic Ormerod Bentinck; of both Elora and Austen Lake, Ontario passed away on Sunday, February 10, 2008 at the Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus. He was Born in Exeter on July 2nd, 1921. He achieved his first notoriety when he and best friend, Lorne Bray, built the Naughty Marietta sailboat and proceeded to get stranded in Lake Ontario. Fishermen from Bronte rescued him and towed him back to Bronte. He married Norma Eileen Bray on April 21st ,1943 and within two weeks he was sent overseas with the Royal Canadian Air Force where he served until the end of World War II. When he returned to Canada, he found work with Canadian General Electric for the next 31 years in Toronto and Guelph. He became foreman for the bushing and lightning rod department. In 1954, he moved from Toronto to Guelph and subsequently, in 1958, bought property on the South River Road between Fergus and Elora with his young family. In 1966, Fred (aka) Ted and Norma, helped his No. 1 son Lorne start a successful business, Cedar Spring Nursery. Both Lorne and No. 2 son Paul continue to run this business today. Fred was an avid carpenter and master of projects. He built a new home on the Grand River for himself and his late wife Norma, who passed away in December of 1982. Not satisfied with this achievement, he turned his eyes northward and he and Norma acquired a recreational lot in Austen Lake just south of Timmins. The cottage became a family project and his daughter, Marion, spent the first summer as his gofer, putting up the initial walls. Fred was constantly called upon for advice by his fellow cottagers and soon was voted the mayor of Austen Lake, a title he proudly held until his passing. He helped all his family build or renovate homes, including three houses in the Yukon where he visited often. Everyone who met Fred/Ted carried away a lasting impression of a colourful and lovable character. He will be sorely missed. Fred is survived by his two sons Lorne (Vicki), Paul (Pat) and daughter Marion (Peter). Sisters Ellen, Betty and sister-in-law Marion and their children, plus grand children, Kerri, Barbi, Alan, Evan, Tammy, Kristen, Mike, and Christopher, great grand children abound and Fred’s legacy will carry on. The family received their friends at the GRAHAM A. GIDDY FUNERAL HOME AND CHAPEL, 37 CHURCH ST., ELORA. From 7-9 P.M. Wed and 2-4 and 7-9 P.M. Thurs. Funeral service was held at the funeral home on Friday February 15, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. followed by interment at the Elora Cemetery. Remembrances to the R.C.L. Br 225, In Elora would be appreciated (cards available at the funeral home 5198465352) www.grahamgiddyfh.com
