Obituary of Frederick Alexander Vienneau

Frederick “Butch” Alexander Vienneau (May 2, 1943-July 24, 2024) With heavy hearts, we announce the death of our father, Frederick Alexander Vienneau, 81 of Stellarton. He died peacefully surrounded by family at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. Born in New Glasgow, he was a lifelong resident of Stellarton. He was the eldest son of the late Frederick and Katherine (Skoke) Vienneau. He was the oldest of 31 grandchildren of the late Alexander and Veronica (Puscar) Skoke, who emigrated from the former Yugoslavia to make a home in Stellarton. Fred was a lifelong learner and avid reader. He had a sharp wit and immense knowledge of history, religion, science, and worldly affairs. He worked from the time he was 12 years old beginning at Allens Dairy in Stellarton. Following this he was employed with Canada Postal Service. He enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces and completed training in Basic Electrical and Electronics. Always keen for learning, Fred worked as assistant Lab Technician for the Aberdeen Hospital. He was assistant manager for Tibbetts Paints and often shared fond memories of his work for Clairtone Sound. During his 35-year career at Scott Paper/Kimberly-Clark, he was certified in Industrial Electrical, interprovincial standard and Construction Electrical. Fred served as Union President for three terms. His dedication to this role led to significant achievements in many contract negotiations. He was respected, known as principled and steadfast in all his endeavors. Dad was happiest when he was helping a friend or sharing a story. We will miss his hearty laughter and fun-loving attitude. With us all, he shared his musical talents and fostered a love for the guitar. In our family, every person owns a guitar! He was civic minded, served in local politics and instilled the responsibility to be involved and informed. He loved watching his sons play hockey and in his role as a coach, advocated tirelessly for equality and fairness. Some may remember Vienneau Brother Hardware Store in Westville, which Fred started with his brother Dennis. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and was the person who could fix anything! Our fondest memories include “helping” dad as he built our family cottage at Seafoam and then our home on Baxter Avenue. Every Saturday he could spend hours in his garage fixing and tinkering with motors, cars, or radios. There was always a steady stream of visitors with various gadgets and machines that needed attention. The visitors always came back mostly for dad’s company and friendship. In retirement, Fred co-founded Dennis Vienneau Automotive with his son Dennis. The first year, dad achieved his Red Seal Automotive Service Technician certificate. He also earned his Nova Scotia motor vehicle inspection license. He loved to say that at age 59, he was the oldest apprentice in Nova Scotia! Fred enjoyed spending time with his wife Sheila, playing golf and sharing this passion with his grandchildren. He and mom loved their road trips to Maine and never missed a Christmas concert, a school graduation or family gathering. With his loving wife Sheila, they raised their family with love and emphasis on family. Dad was mom’s care giver for several years prior to her death. He was a devoted husband and father to his three children. He will be dearly missed by his children Dennis (Wendy) Vienneau, Plymouth and Theresa (J. Robert Mackay) Vienneau of Scotsburn. Fred is survived by sister-in-law, Margaret “Peggy” Vienneau; daughter in law, Bonnie Vienneau of Kitimat, BC, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Fred has made a lasting impact and will be deeply missed by his five grandchildren: David (Alice) Vienneau and Craig (Misty) Vienneau of Kitimat, BC; Rachel Vienneau of Plymouth, NS; Lucas MacKay and Ryan MacKay, both of Scotsburn, NS. Fred was a proud great grandfather of Oscar Vienneau and Charlee Vienneau, both of Kitimat, BC. Fred’s nephew Greg Vienneau and his wife Cathy (Thompson) are affectionately mentioned for their love and kindness to dad’s mother, and our grandmother, Gram Kay. In addition to his parents, Fred was predeceased by his wife and best friend of 53 years, Sheila Mary Vienneau; eldest son, Frederick “Bruce” Vienneau, and brothers Dennis Vienneau, Bruce Vienneau and nephew, David Vienneau. A special thank you to all the caring staff at the Aberdeen Hospital. Thank you to friends and family who supported us with love and kindness. In keeping with Fred’s wishes, there will be no visitation or service. Funeral arrangements are under the care of H.W. Angus & H.C MacQuarrie Funeral Homes. A private family internment will take place later. In dad’s memory, consider donating to Save the Children Canada as he gave faithfully for over 50 years.