It is with great sadness that Canoe Kayak Canada recognizes the passing of Fred Johnston, a long-time paddler from the Sudbury Canoe Club and builder in the Canadian canoe kayak community.
Fred became involved in officiating and served as the Eastern Ontario Division Flag Officer from 1973-1976.
Fred also served as Vice Commodore of the Canadian Canoe Association and then served two years as Commodore from 1978-1979.
Fred’s vast knowledge of canoe sport led him to become involved on an international level with the International Canoe Federation. Fred acted as chair of the ICF Public Relations Committee for sixteen years from 1984 until 2000.
In 1983, Fred was presented with the R. Edgar Gilbert award by the CCA, a prestigious recognition of his contributions as a builder within the canoe kayak community.
Fred is most known for his historical contributions to Canadian canoeing. In 1975, Fred initiated a call to action from paddling alumni to contribute items to a proposed Canoe Museum. These items were the beginnings of the CCA archives, a vast collection of materials from across the country.
Fred also published “The Book of Champions” in 1984, with a complete list of medalists from each National Championships dating back to the first championships in 1900.
More recently, Fred has helped to create exhibits at the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Ontario and Canoe Kayak Canada events across the country.
The “C. Fred Johnston Trophy” was named and awarded to the winner of the Open Men’s K-4 200 m race at the National Championships, in keeping with Fred’s appreciation of crew boats.
A Celebration of Fred’s Life will be held at James Reid Funeral Home, 1900 John Counter Blvd, Kingston on October 5, from 1-3 pm with music and story sharing. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Canadian Canoe Museum in memory of Fred.