Freeman Tovell

TOVELL, Freeman Massey 1918 - 2011 On Monday, March 7, peacefully with all his family, at home in Victoria in his 93rd year. Cherished husband of Rosita Anna LeSueur for 69 years. Dear father of Susan (Peter Moogk), Rosemarie, Patricia (Paul Skahan) and Peter (Mark Plummer). Loving grandfather of Jonathan, Benjamin (Lisa Cunningham), Anna and Daniel. Brother of Vincent and the late Walter and Harold. Son of Harold Murchison Tovell and Ruth Massey Tovell. Freeman left his doctoral studies in history at Harvard University to enlist in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1942. In 1944 he entered the fledgling Department of External Affairs with postings in Peru, Bolivia, Denmark and the USA. The highlights of his diplomatic career included service as assistant to Lester Pearson, ambassador to Peru and Bolivia and director of the cultural affairs division. The latter office allowed Freeman to pursue his deep interest in the arts, fostering the international reputations of Canadian artists, writers and musicians. Retiring to Victoria in 1978, Freeman served on the boards of the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and the Maritime Museum of BC. The achievement in which he took the greatest pride was his research and award winning book on Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra which revealed the neglected history of Spanish exploration of the Canadian west coast. His all encompassing love and support sustained his family. His generosity of spirit and his wry sense of humour brought pleasure to all who knew him. Freeman was a gentleman in every sense of the word. A memorial service will be held at St. George the Martyr Anglican Church, 3909 St. Georges Lane, Cadboro Bay in Victoria on Monday, March 14 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Freeman's name to an arts organization of your choice. Condolences to www.firstmemorialfuneral.com Victoria location.