Obituary of Frederick Arenburg

Frederick William Arenburg 79, of Petite Riviere, Lunenburg County, NS, passed away April 21, 2003, in South Shore Regional Hospital Bridgewater NS. He was born in Broad Cove, on September 4, 1923 and was the son of the late Captain Howard and Helen Arenburg of Petite Revere. He is survived by his daughters, Linda (Bob Veniott), Amherst; Susan (Lee Fleming), Pugwash; and son David (Elizabeth) of Yarmouth. Also surviving are grandchildren, Michael, Mark, Mia, Margaret and Hilary. He is also survived by his Aunt, Ida Jane Himmelman of Broad Cove and a life-long friend considered a sister, Belle Bush of Petite Riviere. He was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Lois Estelle (Cunning). Fred became associated with the Halifax Herald at the age of 16, handling circulation on the South Shore of Nova Scotia by bicycle. He served overseas in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1942-46, attaining the rank of Staff Sgt. His broadcasting career began in 1948 at CKBW, Bridgewater, as a part time announcer while employed full time with the Halifax Herald’s South Shore Bureau. In 1954 he joined the sales department at CHNS Halifax, later becoming Program Director in 1959 and Station Manager in 1960. Under his direction “Talk Radio” began its start in Nova Scotia with a “Open Mike”. While in Halifax, he was an active member of the Rotary Club, served as a Director of the Halifax Dartmouth United Way and was President of the Halifax Ad and Sales Club. In 1970 he moved to Amherst with his family, becoming General Manager of CKDH Radio. In 1980 he became majority shareholder and President of Tantramar Broadcasting, owners of CKDH. In 1989 he sold his interests to Maritime Broadcasting, remaining a consultant until 1993. Despite his executive and managerial duties, he always maintained an active “On –Air” presence through out his 19 years in Amherst. In 1970 he established and hosted an open line show “People to People” Monday to Friday mornings for one hour and remained with the program until his retirement. He also co-anchored the morning major newscast. Under his guidance and initiative, the radio station played a very active role in community service and spearheaded many fund raising drives for local organizations. In 1975 the station won the Canadian Association of Broadcaster’s Station of the Year Award and its news department won a Dan McArthur Award for Excellence in Radio News from the Radio and Television News Directors Association of Canada. The Town of Springhill paid tribute to him by presenting him with an Honorary Citizenship Award. Shortly following his retirement, the Amherst Rotary Club honored him with a Testimonial Dinner. On this occasion he was acknowledged with many accolades from his peers, presented with plaques by the town and municipal council and named a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International. Until recently, he operated Arenburg’s Bed and Breakfast, in a home and cottage that was his boyhood residence. He was a beloved father, grandfather and nephew, always there to give direction and support when needed. Memorial Service to be held Wednesday 3pm in the Wesley United Church, Petite Riviere, Rev. Karen Ohrt officiating. Private family burial will follow in the Wesley United Cemetery, Petite Riviere. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wesley United Church, Church Of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, Bridgewater or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home Bridgewater. No visitation at the funeral home by request. A reception will follow the service at the family home. On line condolences may be made at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com