On January 24th, 2022, Optimist Club of Calgary's life member’ Fred Podovinnikoff passed away at the age of 83.

In 1975, he became a member of the Optimist Club of North Calgary. Then when that club folded around 2008, he joined the Optimist Club of Calgary.

During his time as an Optimist, he was a 3-time President and well-respected member who lived his life by the Optimist Creed. He is survived by his wife Jean, two adult children, and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Submitted by:  President Bill Campbell

​Fred Podovinnikoff
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Fred Podovinnikoff passed away peacefully on January 24, 2022 at 82 years of age, in the loving presence of Jean, Tanya and Jamie. Fred is survived by his wife Jean, daughter Tanya, son Jamie (Tammy), grandchildren Graydon and Gracie, sister Kathy Watkins, sisters-in-law Marion Yuers (Larry) and Barb Peyton (Bruce), Rick Soukeroff (Alvina) and many nieces and nephews, who he loved dearly. Fred was predeceased by his brother Mitch and sister-in-law Polly Chernoff, brother Peter and sister in law Molly Podovinnikoff, brother-in-law Jack Watkins, brother-in-law Harold Peyton, sister-in-law Frankie and brother in law Larry Beaton. Born and raised in Grand Forks, BC, after high school Fred left home to begin his journey. He attended SAIT and obtained a diploma in Industrial Electrical Technology. Fred enjoyed a 37 year career with Calgary Power / TransAlta Utilities. In the early years at Calgary Power, Fred met and married the love of his life, Jean Peyton. Together they raised their children and were then blessed with two amazing grandchildren who completed his life. A year after retirement from TransAlta Fred decided retirement was not for him. He started his own consulting business and enjoyed a second career of 25 years working with Thompson Bros Construction in Spruce Grove, AB. Fred was a family man, a company man and an active member of the community. He was a 3 time President and well-respected member of the Calgary Optimist Club since 1975 and lived his life by the Optimist Creed - "Promise Yourself to be so Strong that Nothing can Disturb your Peace of Mind..." He was involved with the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) for fifty years. Fred also spent 50 years on Board of Directors at Hydro Credit Union (now Bow Valley CU), which made him the longest standing member. He was the ultimate volunteer, spending many years on Varsity community projects, Crowchild Twin Arenas, also volunteering and with his son's hockey and baseball teams and with his daughter's synchronized swimming teams. As a heritage member of the Calgary Winter Club, Fred enjoyed bowling, curling and socializing with friends and family. Fred had a wonderful and unique sense of humour and a gentle demeanour. Over the years he developed many lifelong friendships and touched the lives of many friends and family members. A devoted husband of 60 years, a loving and proud Father, "Deda" (grandfather), Brother, and Uncle, Fred was happiest when he was spending time with his friends and family. He will be forever loved and dearly missed. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or Kidney Foundation in his memory. A Celebration of Life Service to follow at a later date. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Fred's family through www.evanjstrong.com.