It is with great sadness that we share that Fred Kolman passed away suddenly on August 28, 2024 at the age of 88.
Beloved husband of Claire for 63 years. Loving father of Tracy (David) and Jim (Lisa). Proud Grandad of Taylor, Morgan, Benjamin, Hannah and Jacob. Predeceased by his parents Frederik and Catherina. Brother to Hans.
Fred was born in Hilversum, Holland in 1935 and immigrated to Canada as a young boy. His passion of family, motorcycles and business, wove through all aspects of his life.
Fred started his business, Wheelsport in 1972 and although retired he visited the store almost daily. He spent his life accumulating an impressive collection of vintage and rare motorcycles and took great pride in sharing his special acquisitions at shows with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts. He was a talented racer back in the day and continued riding a road bike until just a few days before his death. He could often be found at the race track cheering on the racers in the family. Cars were also a hobby along with fishing and gardening. Fred enjoyed travelling the world. He and Claire enjoyed many trips together and explored many countries.
The family would like to thank the team at the Ottawa Heart Institute for their swift, thorough and compassionate care.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024 from 6-8 pm at the Beachwood Funeral Home at 280 Beechwood Avenue, Vanier, Ontario.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute would be appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Doug & Helene Hunter
John and Susan Barnes
Are sympathies are with the entire Kolman family. Knowing Fred he is still doing business in heaven
Jane Boardman
My deepest sympathy to Claire, Tracy and Jim. I enjoyed many chats with Fred over the years that I lived on Kinsella. A big loss for the family.
Hugs to all of you
Bob Caron (Bob's Cycle Cornwall)
My condolences to all Fred's family and friends.
Diane Burke
I’m so sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. Had the privilege of talking to Fred over the past years, such a wonderful person. My deepest sympathies 🙏
Joe Mathurin
My sincere sympathies to his family, friends and employees.
Fred was a great guy. He was also my first boss. I worked for him from the summer of 1972 until he sold his half of the business to his partner to open Wheelsport.
He was a good boss and an important influence on me and my career.
Whenever I visited his shop, he seemed genuinely happy to see me, even when I hadn’t been by for several years.
I last saw him in June 2018 at the MotoSocial in Ottawa. He was riding a Ural sidecar rig at the time. It was nice chatting with him again.
Miss you, Fred.
Heather Desormeaux Peter Griffiths
Deepest sympathies. May you find comfort in your memories.
Elena Richmond
My father, Adrian Richmond, and I, wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Fred's family. Fred was always so kind to dad, and dad loved to tell me stories of his visits with his friend. We hope your family is comforted by just as many happy memories of time spent with your husband, dad, and opa as the memories his friends have of him.
Deepest sympathies to the Kolman family. He will be missed.