Frederick J. Dunbury, Jr.
1960 - 1976
Freddy was born on May 6, 1960. He was a student at Bourne High School at the time of his death.
Freddy is remembered by his family as a wonderfully friendly and outgoing young man. He was an avid fisherman. In June of his last summer, he caught a 26 lb. striped bass while fishing in the canal. Fishing was not his only sport. He also took part in many team sports — baseball, football, track and hockey. Hockey gave him the greatest pleasure and the most success. He truly enjoyed his coaches and teammates.
As the years have passed and some of the family's memories
of Freddy have faded, one seems to grow brighter. This took place on a spring
day at the baseball field, which is behind the present Town Library. Freddy's
parents had driven from their Cataumet home to pick him up after Little League
practice. He had told them that the coaches were choosing the team that day.
Not long after they parked their car, they witnessed this scene from across
the field. The sun was low so the boys and coaches stood as silhouettes against
the sky. One boy went to the left of the group. He was jumping with joy. Next,
Freddy joined him and then another and another. It was obvious these were the
boys chosen for the team. Several other boys were on the other side of the coaches.
They were slumped down. Their body language made it clear that they had not
been selected. As we continued to watch, Freddy left the elated group and went
to the others where he knelt down between two of them and placed his arms around
their shoulders. This small act of kindness and empathy is what most defines
Freddy to his family. They continue to mourn what might have been if such a
loving spirit could have continued to put his arms around those who needed a
hug.