Fredrick Albert Draycott passed away peacefully at the West Parry Sound Health Centre on Tuesday, March 24th, 2026 in his 90th year.
Beloved husband of the late Irene Draycott (nee Madigan). Loving father of Catherine MacMillan (the late Dave); and Kelly Draycott (Angela). Dear father-in-law of Aaran Leonard. Cherished Grandfather of Lindsay, Nick, Parker, and Lauren. Predeceased by his loving parents: Annie Draycott (nee Mahon), Albert Draycott, and step-mother Eva Draycott (nee Kirkham). Son-in-law of the late Herman and Vera Madigan. Dear brother of Gale Rettie (the late Doug), John Draycott (Sonya), and Marilyn McEwen (Tom). Predeceased by his siblings: Isabella Meisenheimer (Bert), Elaine Rhodes, Ruth Campbell (Dick), Gwen Whiteside (Stan), and Irene Draycott. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Fred was raised on a farm in the Rosseau area by his grandmother, alongside two of his sisters, Elaine and Isabella, after the loss of his mother at the age of five. As the youngest in that household, he shared a special, lifelong bond with his older sisters, who helped nurture and guide him through his early years. After high school, he married the love of his life, Irene, beginning a lifelong partnership full of adventure.
Fred’s path to education was anything but ordinary. After leaving high school at a young age, he returned to school in the 1950s as a mature student. Surrounded by younger classmates and affectionately known as “the grey-haired student,” he approached his studies with determination and quiet resolve. He began his teaching career in 1966 and, while teaching, earned a Bachelor of Arts from Trent University in 1977 and a Master of Education from the University of Toronto in 1980. He continued to teach secondary school for many years, a career he valued until his retirement.
Fred had a deep appreciation for travel and adventure, seeing much of the world throughout his life. He explored all across Canada and visited every U.S. state, along with memorable trips through Europe, including the French Riviera and the British Isles. He especially enjoyed the energy of Las Vegas and the tradition of the Calgary Stampede. In his later years, Fred truly enjoyed attending events at the Stockey Centre, a local hub for arts and culture that he cherished. He truly enjoyed life and made the most of it at every opportunity.
The family would also like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at The Gardens, who cared for Fred over the past year and a half with warmth, respect, and the dignity he so deserved.
Resting at the Logan Funeral Home, where friends will be received on Friday, March 27th from 12:00 – 1:00 P.M. Funeral Service will take place in the Logan Memorial Chapel on Friday, March 27th at 1:00 P.M. Reception to follow.
Interment Hillcrest Cemetery in the spring.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation would be appreciated.
Hi. I am the daughter of Gwen Whiteside. Unfortunately I never had the chance to meet my Uncle Fred. But I do recall my Mom and my Aunties always speaking so fondly of their little brother. He sounded like an amazing person. May he rest in peace.
-Elizabeth Fiorito
Kelly to you and your family, my deepest sympathy. I knew your father, mother, grandfather(s) and with respect they would be proud you have done well representing those who needed one’s help understanding we can not always chose our path. He will see the light at his journeys end united with those who came before in the presence of the Creator of all Life. John
-JOHN McGARVEY
My Grade 9 Wood Shop teacher in the old AHSS.
-Sam Byers
So sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. I first met Fred back in Lindsay, Ontario where he taught me at LCVI in grade 9 drafting. A few decades later after we moved to Parry Sound I ran into Fred at a local store and recognized him right away and we were able to reminisce. Thoughts and prayers with the family.
-Randy Pepper
Sincerest condolences to Fred’s family. I remember Fred as a neighbour in South River and as a teacher at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School when I was a student there. He was a good man and had a well lived life. May he rest in peace.
-Jim White
To Fred’s family, I met Fred 10 yrs ago at seniors, and enjoyed his presence at our weekly euchre games! Then a yr ago he moved to gardens and was friends with my mom, Ruby, so I would sit and chat with him when I visited mom. My condolences to you all, we will miss Fred!
Renee & Ruby
-Renee Karwaski
Cathy, thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Cindy
-Cindy Profit
My sincere condolences to the family of Fred Draycott.
-Rolly Cascanette
Sincere condolences from the McDermott family. We just learned of Fred’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We have many good memories of our family friendship in South River, as well as Fred teaching with mom and dad. May he rest in peace.
Marilee Hornung
Jean McDermott
Kathy and Jon Edmondson
-Marilee McDermott Hornung
Logan Funeral Home
81 James Street
Parry Sound, ON P2A 1T7
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