Fred joined the National Ski Patrol in 1984. From that date forward, he actively participated on all levels to better his patrol, his region, and his division. He acquired his Senior Patroller status in 1989 and immediately became a Senior OEC Trainer/Evaluator. He continued to maintain this status until he retired from patrolling, though his responsibilities grew over the years.
He was the editor of Toboggan Run, the Western Mass Region newsletter (1990-94), OEC Coordinator (1992-2000), 990 IRS 990 Return Coordinator (1997-99), Region Coordinator for Senior OEC Trainer/Evaluator Recertification (1998), and Assistant Region Director (1993-2000).
Fred held numerous positions of leadership and responsibility. He was the “go-to” guy who could always be depended upon for positive results. For six years, Fred was the Western Massachusetts Region Director. He took the position over in 2000 when the region was fragmented. His organizational and “people” skills brought the region and its patrols together and its programs thrived.
As Region Director, he served on the Eastern Division Board of Directors. He chaired the Finance Committee, which include the Investment Committee. Under his leadership, the following were accomplished:
• simplified ED investments,
• reduced investment costs,
• improved return on investments,
• dedicated percentage of investment income to support of programs,
• codified an Eastern Division investment policy/guideline, and
• selected and hired a single financial advisor/broker to implement investment policy/guidelines.
In 1992, Fred received the Western Mass Region Director’s Award. He was honored to be awarded National Appointment #9264 in 2000 and the NSP Distinguished Service Award in 2007.
Fred worked in the coatings industry his whole career, selling everything from kitchen cabinet finishes to military spec coatings for submarines. He finished out his career working for Sherwin Williams power coating division for over 25 years and retired in 2008.
Besides skiing, Fred loved camping, travel, music, and boating; anything from sailing a canoe to five years enjoying his pwer catamaran “Cat’s Paw.”
Fred is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sue; daughter, Kristen Tucker; son, Matthew; grandchildren Emma, Jakob, Alyssa, Holden, and Tanner; great-grandchild, Asher; and his sister, Barbara Wilson.
Condolences may be sent to 3351 Campbell Road, Mountain City, TN 37683.
