September 24, 1939 – May 23, 2026
It is with deep love and sadness that the family of William Wilfred “Fred” Houle announce his peaceful passing on May 23, 2026, at the age of 86.
Fred was the beloved husband and lifelong partner of Sandra (Ricalton), and a devoted father to Kirby and Danné (Angerilli), Craig and Kathy (Vallee), Steven and Tracey (Campbell), Corey and Toni (Heffern), and Faith (predeceased).
He was an immensely proud grandfather to Jadyn and Steven, Carson and Vanessa, Kiersten and Emma, Nicholas and Karina, Brendan, Dawson and Rebecca, Thomas, and Ryan, and a loving great-grandfather to Aubrey and Gia.
Fred was the cherished son of Lionel and Frances (Burke) Houle, and son-in-law of Bill and Helen (McColeman) Ricalton, all predeceased.
He will be dearly missed by his siblings and their families: Don and Aralinda (predeceased), Marjorie and Terry Powell (predeceased), Joe and Paulette, Pat and Donelda, Jane and Marcel Roy, Bonnie, and Frances (predeceased) and Thomas (predeceased).
Fred was also deeply loved by his extended family, including Myrna Goulard, Judy Ricalton, Al and Cora Pullen, and Elody and Vince, as well as many nieces and nephews to whom he was a caring and devoted uncle.
A hardworking and respected member of the community, Fred dedicated more than 25 years to owning and operating Houle’s Red & White grocery store in Massey. He later owned and operated Houle’s Bus Line for 10 years before retiring at the age of 63. Fred also proudly served for 20 years as a member of the Espanola School Board and spent many years coaching his sons’ hockey teams.
Fred had a remarkable gift for friendship and treasured the many connections he made throughout his life, both at home and during his travels across Canada and around the world. He loved a good game of cards, he was always keeping score. He was also a devoted sports fan who faithfully cheered for the Toronto Blue Jays and the Toronto Maple Leafs. A natural athlete, Fred enjoyed playing baseball in his younger years and later found joy in golf and curling.
Known for his warm smile, gentle nature, and comforting words, Fred was a true gentleman who led by example and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humility, faith, and love. His unwavering faith in God guided the way he lived his life and the way he cared for others.
Though he is no longer with us, Fred’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, PSWs, and doctors at Health Sciences North (ARCC), City of Lakes Family Health Team, and Dr. Goodale for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Fred and his family.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, May 30th, 2026 at 10:30am in St. Patrick’s Church, 39 Walford Road, Sudbury, followed by a luncheon in the Church Hall. Interment in the Massey Cemetery will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred’s memory made directly to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the Red Cross, or Health Sciences North (ARCC) would be greatly appreciated.
Dear Sandra, Steven,Kirby, Craig and Corey and and All the Houle family- I send my heartfelt sympathy on Fred’s transition from his earthly home to the heavens above! Fond memories of Fred and his kind and caring character shine through. May his light and love be with you always!
Hugs, trudy g
June 1, 2026
Cassie siblings, June, Diana, Lorna, George, Lawrence, Doug and I shared our formative years in Massey with Fred and his family. Fred was a very special person who valued faith, family and friends. His community spirit set a high bar for the rest of us to follow. We forward sincere condolences to Fred’s wife, “children” and to all the Houle’s whom we love, respect and admire. A life lived with honour, respect and purpose.
May 31, 2026
We will cherish the memory of the many wonderful and exceptional moments we shared with him. His memory remains very much alive in our hearts and minds.
RiP Fred
Elody, Vibce, Théo, Gustave, Jean-Lux & Lise-Marie
May 30, 2026
Nous nous sommes rencontrés grâce à Elody. Nous nous sommes revus en 2024 lors de notre voyage en Ontario et au Québec. C’est avec grande tristesse que je viens d’apprendre le décès de Fred. Depuis le Nord de la France, j’adresse à Sandra et à toute la famille Houle mes très sincères condoléances.
Que Fred, qui reste en notre souvenir, repose en Paix.
May 28, 2026
When I was an insecure mid-twenties, an immigrant from England, I moved to Massey and into Fred and Sandra’s former home – they were the first people we got to know and I am so fond of them. I’m also grateful that we stayed in touch sporadically, so that I could be made aware. My love and empathy for you and your family Sandra.
With Love,
Jean
May 27, 2026
So sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to Steven and Tracey.
Yves and Marion Bertrand.
May 26, 2026
After moving into Stop 2200 I met Fred and Sandra. He introduced me to a card game called Pay me, yes and he always kept score. A kind and gentle man who always made you welcome with a glass of wine. He loved to tell stories and always shared pictures of his family, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.
Carol and Maurice
May 26, 2026
Very sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. Fred was a very kind and compassionate man. Always welcoming Dave & I with open arms when we visited him & Sandra in PCB. Will have fond memories of him. Keep the memories in your heart. My deepest condolences go out to Sandra and the family.
Liz Sanders
May 26, 2026
l had the ultimate pleasure & honour of meeting Fred & his loving wife Sandra when l moved into Stop 2200. Fred indeed was one of the most kind, thoughtful and generous people that l had the pleasure of meeting. My husband passed away and Fred generously helped me with any job that needed his expertise, patience and muscles. Many tears were shed and Fred always showed compassion during my many drop in visits. He was great at making sure there was always a fresh glass of wine to enjoy. May you rest in peace Fred. My deepest condolences to you Sandra & your loving family.
May 26, 2026
Have known Fred ever since our days together at Massey Continuation School. Doing business with him at Houles Red & White was always a pleasure. In all ways truly community minded, caring and genuinely honest. Condolences to Sandra and all the Houles.
Mack & Beth Emiry
May 25, 2026
We are so very sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. Such a pleasant and gentle man. Our condolences to the family. RIP Fred.🕊️
May 25, 2026