Wilfred Joseph Dettling

It is with deep sorrow that we announce Wilfred (Fred) Joseph Dettling went to be with his angels at the age of 90 years old on August 4, 2023. Fred was born in Friedenstal, AB on Feb 24, 1933. He was the youngest son of German immigrants, Susanna (Friedel) and Jack Dettling. Fred grew up in Friedenstal, AB, Rock Creek and Osoyoos, BC. In 1955 at the age of 22, he settled in Prince George. He met Bernice Engstrom, and in 1957 the two married and later raised two daughters, Angie and Heidi. Fred was a loving husband and father. He was well known around Prince George and worked as a bartender, brewery and distillery representative and asbestos salesman. He became a very successful car salesman working at Fred Walls and Sons, Fred Dettling AMC Jeep Renault and Schultz Pontiac Buick. Fred's greatest passion in life was training and travelling with his standard-bred harness horses for racing throughout western Canada. In retirement, after Bernice passed away, Fred found love again with Donelda Carson. Together they became super fans going to the Cougars hockey games, having lunches at the senior center, and living at the Prince George Château. Sadly, Fred developed dementia, and spent the last three years of his life at Gateway Complex Care. He passed away in the arms of his beloved daughter Heidi.

Fred was predeceased by his loving wife Bernice in 2002, cherished daughters, baby Karen in 1957 and Laura Stewart in 2003, brothers Edward and Charles, sisters Kay (Capricorn), Teresa (Readman) and Nettie (Hogaboam). Fred's memory will be forever cherished by his daughters Heidi (Tracy Devris), Angela (Carl Overennay), son Wade Larson, as well as granddaughters Emily, Kaitee, Jill, Aleta and his love Donelda Carson. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Fred's family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses, care aides, and staff at Gateway Complex Care for their compassionate care for Fred during his final days.