Alfred Maximillian Posch

Fred Posch was born on September 15, 1939, in Deutschkreutz, Austria. Fred was the fourth of Karl and Theresia Posch’s five sons. He grew up very close with his brothers, enjoying skating, cycling, swimming, and to playing pranks on friends and cousin's. He attended school in Austria until grade 10 and then attended trade school where he achieved his certification as a Auto mechanic. In the Mid 1960's he completed his Certification as a Heavy Duty Mechanic at NAIT in Edmonton, while working in the Oil Industry in Fort McMurray. He was dedicated to the sport of speed skating, traveling around Europe to compete.

In 1959, Fred made the life-changing decision to leave Austria and move across the ocean to Canada. It was here he met the love of his life, Helen Olsen. The couple lived in Edmonton where Fred worked as a mechanic. Fred continued to compete in speed skating events in the early 1960s, travelling to events across North America. After winning the Canadian National speedskating championship, Fred was named to the 1964 Canadian Olympic Team but due to citizenship delays, he was unable to compete. He set multiple Canadian records and was known for his quick 500-metre race.

Fred and Helen married on October 9, 1965. They soon welcomed their daughter Simone followed by their son David. In 1974, Fred and Helen moved their family to Fort McMurray, AB, for the opportunity the growing community presented. Here, Fred’s entrepreneurial spirit thrived and he was involved with many companies in the oil field industry. He enjoyed helping the community grow, assisting people in finding accommodations and work. He was also a committed husband and father. He was so proud of his children and supported them in their many childhood activities including figure skating, skiing, and hockey. Fred also supported and participated in his daughter's Laddie Jay Quarter Horse business from 1994-2011, a passion they shared along with the eldest granddaughter. He finished his career in 2011 as a consultant in quality control management.

Fred was the best grandfather to his five grandchildren. His grandchildren remember their early years with Fred as a constant presence in their lives. He was their #1 hockey fan, driving kids to and from the rink and offering his quiet support in the stands. He was a role model for hard work and dedication, especially on the farm. His grandchildren followed him around the farm “helping” him. His grandchildren recall fondly his enduring taste for Austrian art, music, and food: fresh sausage, and pastries (with whipped cream from the carton). Helen learned to make many delicious Austrian dishes to meet Fred’s requests. Above all, Fred’s grandchildren will remember his no-nonsense personality accompanied by his quick wit and cheeky humour. He kept everyone on their toes.

Around a decade ago, Fred was diagnosed with a variant of ALS. With his wife by his side, he faced this consuming disease with strength, humility, and his same sense of humour. In 2018, Fred moved into the Citadel Care Centre. His family is forever grateful for the loving care he received from health care staff and the friendships formed with other residents and their families.

Fred is survived by his wife of 59 years, Helen, and their daughter Simone Posch and son David Posch and wife Kelly. He is survived by his five grandchildren: Kaila Hobson Posch; Tyler Posch (Tyla); Tanner Posch (Brenna); Trevor Posch (Brittany); and Treasure Posch. Fred is also survived by his brother Joe Posch and wife Nancy, sister-in-law Hilda Posch, brother-in-law Norm Olsen and wife Marylou, sister-in-law Jane Nieminen and husband Perry, Kaila’s stepfather Tim Mottle, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends – both in Canada and Austria.

Fred was predeceased by his parents, Karl and Theresia (Strehn), his parents-in-law Marion and Norm Olsen, and his brothers Karl and wife Millie, Tony and wife Hazel, and Michael Posch.

If friends so desire, donations in memory of Fred may be made to ALS Society of Alberta.