Fred Denny represented the generation of Australians who were noted for being humble, no nonsense, community minded – and their sense of duty to country.
He was born and bred in Thirlmere, where he lived all of his 100 years, except for the time he did his duty for his country and enlisted during World War II.
Last year he received an OAM in the 2022 Australia Day honours – but he did not wish anyone to make a fuss over the honour.
He did speak to the South West Voice back in 2017 for a feature on his life and times, but generally Fred Denny did not seek any attention.
Fred Denny was born on April 9, 1923 and passed away on July 16, 2023 – a little more than three months after celebrating his 100th birthday.
He was a life and founding member of the Picton Thirlmere Bargo RSL from 1946 and the Warragamba Workers and Sporting club.
He was also a life member of the 55/53rd infantry battalion, also known as the Mice of Moresby.
Since returning from active duty during World War II, Fred Denny never missed an Anzac Day march, locally or in Sydney, where he would go by train every year on April 25.
A public memorial service in celebration of Fred Denny’s life will be held at Thirlmere Cemetery on the afternoon of Saturday, July 29.
In lieu of flowers to the family over coming weeks, Fred had requested these to be withheld until the day of his life celebration where a wishing well will be provided.
All proceeds will be passed to his chosen charity, NRMA Careflight, to assist infants and kids in need of urgent medical attention.
Red poppy flowers will be provided to all attendees of Fred’s life celebration as part of an RSL service on July 29, where all individuals will have the opportunity to acknowledge Fred’s life in their own way.
Fred Denny, rest in peace.
