Dr Frederick Van Seters, 1937–2017
With great sadness and heartbreak we announce the passing of Dr Fred Van Seters at the age of 79.
With great sadness and heartbreak we announce the passing of Dr Fred Van Seters at the age of 79. Dr Van Seters suffered from episodes of depression over many years and lost the battle on 18 April 2017, ending his own life.
He is survived by his wife, Joanne Montgomery; his son, Christopher; his brothers, John (Elizabeth) and Richard (Judi); and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his sister, Phil, and his brothers, Hugo (Pat) and Arthur (Rowena).
Fred was born and raised in Toronto. He graduated from medical school at the University of Toronto in 1968 and moved to Penticton in 1972, where he ran a family practice until his retirement. Fred was not defined by his work. He pursued many interests over the years. He loved the outdoors, particularly backcountry skiing and climbing, and was a founding member of the Penticton Outdoors Club. He participated in triathlons and ran with the Penticton Pounders into his 70s. He was a prolific reader and loved music, particularly classical and jazz. He had acted and directed in local theatre. Whatever his interest of the moment, he pursued it with passion. When he was well he would say, “I have to live a very long time because there is too much I want to know.” He will be missed by his family and the community.
—N. John Bosomworth, MD, FCFP
Penticton