Frederick "Fred" Matthew Laycock

Fred Matthew Laycock of Russell passed away December 18th at the Russell Personal Care Home at the age of 100.  Fred was born on the family farm in the RM of Shellmouth on March 30th, 1925 to Louis LeRoy Laycock and Mabel Mildred Laycock (nee Clement). He grew up there, involved in every aspect of the farm from a young age and became strongly connected to the land. He was granted special permission to stay home during World War II to keep up his responsibilities tending to the land and the animals.  

His greatest achievements were his family and his farm.  He attended school at Thunder Creek and played many instruments in the family band including piccolo, flute, and clarinet.  He also played in the Russell Elks Marching band for many years and traveled all around the area to fairs and sports days.

He enjoyed feeding birds, camping, woodworking, and was often found doing crosswords and word searches.  Fred married Lois Delamare on July 12th, 1949 and spent 36 years together and had two children together: Daryle Matthew and Beverly Adele. On February 14th, 1987 he married Mina Osborne (nee Deg) and gained three more kids: Tanis Milo, Sherri Louanne and Wesley Duwayne.

Fred was well known for his stories. He could tell a story in great detail from any age or stage of his life and many people were in awe of his story telling abilities.  He taught history lessons to his grandchildren and great grandchildren through recounting his experiences on the farm. Very rarely would family visit and not hear a story from days gone by.

He was predeceased by his parents LeRoy and Mabel, sisters Mildred, and Edith, and his brother Maurice.

He is survived by his wife Mina, and his brother George. Son Daryle (Veronica) , daughter Adele (Harold), step daughters Sherri (the late Royce) and Tanis (Paul), and step son Wes (Richelle) as well as 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Knox United Church Memorial Fund, Russell Hospital Auxiliary, or Heart and Stroke Foundation