Frederick "Fred" Clayton

Austin (Fred) Clayton passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord on June 25th, 2013. Fred was born on April 2, 1919 in St. John, New Brunswick, the second son to Florence and Arthur Clayton, recent arrivals from the UK. The family moved to Vancouver when their home was destroyed by fire when Dad was 6 years old.

Dad grew up helping his parents at the family store in North Burnaby and spent many summers at the family cabin on Bowen Island.

After returning from service in the Royal Air Force during World War Two, Dad learned that his approachable friendly nature was well suited for a sales career, which he pursued at various firms over his working life, providing well for the family he and Mom raised in the Fraser Valley.

While still a young man Dad accepted God’s gift of salvation in Christ and for the rest of his life he modeled humility, compassion and love to his family and those who he worked with.

Dad and Mom were among the first members of Abbotsford Alliance (now Sevenoaks Alliance) Church in Abbotsford, and both set a strong example of Christian service. Dad served in many capacities over the years, but his role as an usher was his passion, greeting everyone and making them feel welcome.

Dad and Mom enjoyed a long retirement, which included travel and much time visiting with friends and family.

Dad is survived by his six children; Daryl (Mary), Bob (Maxine), David (Michelle), Dianne (Bert), Brian (Laura), John (Michelle) and many dearly loved grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dad was predeceased by his dear wife of 60 years Carol, his parents and brother Harold.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Worthington Pavilion for the compassionate loving care Dad received during his time there.

A celebration of Dad’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2013 at Sevenoaks Alliance Church, 2575 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford.