Obituary of Fred Lashbrook

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frederick John Lashbrook on May 2, 2026.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Jill Kirby (Ryan) and Kim Eckel (Glenn). Cherished by his grandchildren, Michael (Jennifer), Ashley (Billy), Matthew (Caitlin), Katie and Emily (Kyle). Special great-grandfather to Jackson, Amelia, Avery, Billy, Lyla, Madeline, Raymond and Riley. 

Fred was predeceased by his beloved wife and best friend, Barbara (2018), as well as his parents, Russell Lashbrook and Ruth (née Little), his stepmother, Vera (née Walker), and his siblings, William Lashbrook and Diane Smith.

After a short courtship, Fred and Barb eloped and shared 62 wonderful years together.

Fred was deeply proud of his Galt roots. He maintained lifelong friendships with the “Boys from Galt” and cherished their weekly lunches right up until the end.

In 1970, Fred and Barbara opened Lashbrook’s Shoes, which they proudly operated until 1996. The store became a final testament to the Lashbrook family legacy of footwear.

Fred had a love and talent for architecture reflected by the homes, cottages, and furniture, he built, rarely seen without a tool in hand. 

Fred and Barb enjoyed retirement in Foxboro, Baden, surrounded by dear friends and neighbours. He treasured many rounds of golf and curling with the guys, card nights, and the warmth of shared meals and gatherings.

Spending memorable summers on Georgian Bay, even at 90, Fred enjoyed jumping off the rock cliffs along with his great-grandchildren.

In his final years, he formed heartfelt connections with staff and residents at Chartwell Clair Hills and in his final days received exceptional care at Hospice Waterloo. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice Waterloo Region and the Food Bank of Waterloo and can be arranged through Erb and Good Funeral Home.

 A private family service will be held at a later date.

“I’ve had a wonderful life, and if I had to do it all over again, I would do it exactly the same.”