FRED REINHARDT

This edition, the Love Bugs would like to feature Noble Fred Reinhardt, of Highgate, Ontario. Fred became a Mason in 1970 at the Highgate Lodge #336 and Master in 1977 and Grand Steward of Chatham District in 1999.

Fred became a Shriner on June 3, 1972 in Tillsonburg. Besides belonging to the Love Bugs, he is also part of the Ahcom Unit in Chatham. After reading the Mocha News, he decided to join the Love Bugs in 1987 and started parading in June of that year. Over time, he had three different bugs - a blue one, a red one and a yellow one. He found them a fun car.

Fred and his wife Bea, will be celebrating their 59th anniversary on June 28, 2006. They have three children, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Their daughter Judy and her husband Morley have two children, Steve and wife Brenda have their two children Matthew and Andrew. Judy and Morley's other son, Greg and wife, Tracy have Emily and Riley. Fred's daughter, Barb has two children, Sara and Lisa. Fred's son, John has a son Derrick. I hope I got all that right!

Fred did some farming and then decided to have his own farm machinery business. He was the dealer, mechanic and owner of Reinhardt's Farm Machinery in Highgate. He operated this for 27 years and retired. Not one to sit around, he decided to have a tree stump removal business and worked for the municipality. Next he sold cars in Thamesville. Fred and Bea kept busy driving people to Cancer Clinics in London, Chatham and Windsor. Now, they are involved with CHAP. They provide transportation for seniors for doctors appointments, hair appointments, groceries etc. Once a month, he sings at the retirement village in Ridgetown. He has always been active in the Highgate United Church in the choir and in the positions of Elder, Steward and Trustee.

Fred found the Love Bugs so friendly when he decided to join them. He mentions Cliff Inch, one of the original three, was a big influence in his decision.

Thanks Fred. Hope you enjoy many more years as a Love Bug.

Featured in Mocha News: May 2006 Edition