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Fred Kuzmic Obituary
Obituary for Fred Miroslav Kuzmic
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Fred Kuzmic announce his passing at the age of 79. Fred died of heart failure at the Edson Healthcare Center on Thursday, January 9th, 2025.
Fred was born in Sevnica, Slovenia on April 14, 1945, but lived in the nearby town of Brestanica. He spent his early childhood days exploring the outdoors, fishing in the creek and helping on the family farm. Despite being a wonderful place to grow up, Yugoslavia was a country experiencing civil unrest, so at the age of 12, Fred accompanied his parents to Austria, where they waited until they could immigrate to Canada. When he was13, they boarded a ship and began their transatlantic voyage to a new life.
Once in Canada, Fred attended school and learned to speak English. Who would have thought that just seven years later he would marry the love of his life, Ardelle? Fred began working in a zinc mine with his father in northern Ontario, the start of a lifelong career in mining. After working and starting a family in mining towns like Batchewana Bay, Manitouwadge, and Uranium City, Fred accepted a job as Loss Control Prevention Officer at the Coal Valley mine, and in 1982 moved his growing family to Edson, Alberta, where he would live for the next 43 years. Fred completed the Occupational Health and Safety Professional program from the University of Alberta and was passionate about teaching First Aid. In 2000 Fred was awarded membership in the Order of St. John Priory of Canada for his service and commitment to St. John’s Ambulance.
Fred loved his family with all his heart and cherished everyone beyond measure. Spending time together, whether fishing, camping, or playing games, was a highlight for Fred and something he always looked forward to. With boundless love to give, Fred and Ardelle opened their arms and home as foster parents to over 85 children and raised their grandson, Markus. Fred’s passing has left a huge hole in all of us and his absence will be deeply felt.
Fred had a positive impact on many of those around him and was actively involved in his community. He dedicated his time to helping others, serving as president of the Edson Food Bank, volunteering at his church, and was known to flip pancakes at various charity fundraisers. Fred was a member of the Edson Legion where he built lasting friendships and volunteered for the meat draws and other special events. He loved to cook meals for others and took pride in making sure there was always more than enough food to go around and no one would ever leave hungry. He was a caring, generous person and would quite literally give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. He believed in “building a bigger table” and shared whatever he had. His selflessness and generosity touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on the community of Edson. Fred was a devoted follower of Christ and his life reflected this.
Later in life, Fred’s second home became the Edson Pioneer Cabin. His weekly schedule included shuffleboard, floor curling, billiards, or playing cards. These activities were perfect given his competitive nature but even more important than winning a game, were the friendships that he made. Being part of a thriving seniors community brought great joy in his life.
When Fred wasn’t at the Pioneer Cabin, you could find him at home with a cup of Timmies in hand watching a hockey game or a movie. Fred was a romantic at heart and enjoyed watching a love story unfold as much as he enjoyed watching a Kung Fu or Western movie. Fred had an impressive collection of belt buckles, comic books and had more ball caps than you could count.
Fred is predeceased by his parents, Aleksandar and Agnes Kuzmic, his loving wife, Ardelle and his sons, Jeffery and Gregory. What a great reunion he is having in heaven! Fred is survived by his children, Frederick (Brenda), Michelle (Steve), William, Marina, Daniel (Val), Joshua (Rachel), Steve (Regina), Samantha (Travis), and the Moses and Jankovic families. He is survived by 22 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Fred is also survived by his siblings Alex and Alexandra (Steve), his brother-in-law Edward (Karolyn) and sister-in-law, Sharon.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Edson Legion (5016 5th Ave) on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Family and close friends may attend a viewing at the Edson Funeral Home (5040 6th Ave) on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Edson Food Bank, Edson Pioneer Cabin, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.
Special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Edson Healthcare Center for their professional and compassionate care of Fred.
Fred will be greatly missed by his family and friends but has found peace in the arms of his Saviour.
We love you, DAD!
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April 14 1945 January 9 2025 79 Years Old
Death notice for the town of: Edson, Province: Alberta
death notice Fred Miroslav Kuzmic April 14 1945 January 9 2025 79 Years Old
obituaries notice Fred Miroslav Kuzmic April 14 1945 January 9 2025 79 Years Old
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Fred Miroslav Kuzmic April 14 1945 January 9 2025 79 Years Old and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
