Eight years ago today, we lost a very special man.  He was taken away so quickly and left a void that will never be filled.  He quietly helped those in need, was a great friend and neighbor and did so much for his community. His family was the most import part of his life and he left them a wonderful legacy. He loved his country and his God.  He was one of a kind – this world needs more Old Freds.

Old Fred

Some say, when God made Old Fred He must have broke the mold
While his exterior was a little rough, inside beat a heart of gold
Born in the sand hills of Nebraska, he led a cowboy’s life
He told of surviving blizzards, the hardships and the strife
Then he joined the Air Force, he left home to fight a war
Saved lives, came back a hero and put his medals in a drawer
In his old beat up van, you‘d see him driving through our town
With his bushy beard, friendly smile, his old cap pulled down
He believed in God and country and flew Ol’ Glory everyday
He remembered all the soldiers and prayed for those in harm’s way
He performed many acts of kindness that he never talked about
He lent a hand to those in need, and helped those down and out
Everyone has their special stories telling of Fred’s good deeds
How he fixed their old washer or helped someone in need
His greatest treasures here on earth, were his children and his wife
And his grand and great grandchildren were the pride of his life
We’ll miss seeing him at Doyle’s and those trips up to the lake
Who’ll come when things are broken or emcee for goodness sake?
We know Fred’s at home in Heaven and if he has a wish
He’ll be with his friends and St. Peter trying to catch fish
He made the world a better place and when all is done and said
Our town has lost a treasure; there’ll never be another Fred

Sue Ikerd
February 27, 2006

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