Fred Pinkus

Fred Pinkus, a former resident of Williamsburg, passed away at the Ottawa Civic Hospital on Tues., Sept. 16, 2008, surrounded by his family. He was 83 years young.

He was the beloved husband of 60 years of Leona (nêe Cohen), and the loving father of Rhona (Mark Viner), Gloria (Sammy Chasin), Marc (Elaine), and Sherri (Jeff Kanter). He was the cherished grandfather of Rickie, Jennifer, Samantha, Andria, Avalee, Max, Hannah, Robby, Daniel, and Jonah. He was the dear great-grandfather of Lauren. He was the dear brother of Rita Ginsberg and Edie Gratton. He was predeceased by his brother Harry.
He was known simply as "Freddy" to all who had the privilege of working with, laughing with, and loving him.
Fred immigrated to Canada from Germany in 1939, and immediately went to work, at age 14, to support his family. He settled originally on a farm in Brouseville where he began his business career, buying and selling bags, rags, and horsehair. Later he expanded into scrap metal and tires. Eventually Fred founded Pinkus Tire and Battery Kingdom in Williamsburg. The business he built is now over 60 years old.

He was always a hard worker, but also one who often said he "never worked a day in his life," because he enjoyed what he did so much.

He was very active in his community. He served for many years on the Williamsburg Council, the Hydro Commission, and the fire department. He joined the Lions Club, and was a long-time member of the Odd Fellows.
Fred's many pastimes included fishing, farming, gardening, curling, golfing, camping, and boating. In his later years he became an exercise fanatic, and could often be seen walking around our area, always with a smile on his face and a story to share. He especially enjoyed sitting around the dinner table with his family and friends, telling stories and jokes...not all of which can be shared in this newspaper.

In his later years Fred and Leona moved to Ottawa, but he visited this area often and continued working.
His heart and spirit always remained in our community.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Winchester District Memorial Hospital in remembrance of Fred Pinkus.