Frederick Francis Cournoyer, lovingly known as Freddie, died surrounded by his family on July 31 at his family home in Oak Bluffs. He was 89.

Born on June 14, 1936 in Vineyard Haven, Freddie was a proud native of Martha’s Vineyard. He was a beloved husband, supportive father, hard-worker and cherished friend to many.

He spent his youth on Martha’s Vineyard, where his easy laughter and genuinely kind demeanor quickly became his trademark.

After graduating high school, he and his twin brother, Francis, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He left the Island at age 23 and pursued a long and successful career, retiring as a principal senior engineer for Polaroid, where his ingenuity and tireless work ethic were widely recognized by his colleagues.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, his personal life was filled with meaningful milestones. He shared 66 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sandra Anne Brown, a partnership marked by love, loyalty and countless fond memories.

One of his proudest achievements was designing and building his dream home with Sandra in Sengekontacket, a warm and welcoming gathering place for all.

Freddie was known for his enthusiastic sense of humor, honesty and kindness. He enlivened every conversation with a clever joke or infectious chuckle. You could find him every summer on the porch of the family campground cottage, “Happy Ours”, enjoying a good book or entertaining neighbors and friends.

As a longtime member of Mink Meadows golf course, he enjoyed spending time perfecting his swing and admiring the beauty of the Island he called home. But most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, who were always at the center of his heart.

He will be dearly missed by his four children, Kimberly Bitoun, Karyn Hunt, Scott and Keith Cournoyer and their spouses; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his surviving sibling, Charlie; and his large extended family, both on and off-Island, as well as all who were fortunate enough to know him. Memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Freddie’s memory to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, who lovingly took care of Freddie in his final days