Franklin Fredrick 10/26/2026

Franklin EmRoy Fredrick, age 87, passed away at his home in New Richmond, Wisconsin, on October 26, 2026. He was born on April 21, 1939, in Belgrade, Minnesota, to Gustav and Juliana (Gerlach) Fredrick. Frank graduated from West High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on June 14, 1957.

Frank was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he was awarded the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal and the Sharpshooter Badge. He was honorably discharged with the rank of corporal (E-4) in the summer of 1963.

Frank married Mary Jean Shore on September 15, 1962, and they shared 62 years of marriage. The couple initially made their home in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. In 1970, Frank and Mary received the news that they would be unable to have children of their own. With a strong desire to raise a family, they immediately drove to Catholic Charities and registered to adopt a baby, either a boy or a girl. They attended parenting classes year after year as they patiently waited for their turn to become parents. In December 1976, the call they had been waiting for finally came: a baby girl had been matched with them, and they could come to bring her home.

In 1980, Frank built a home in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, where he lived until 2023. During his younger years, he worked a variety of jobs, including as a flour miller at the historic Pillsbury A-Mill in Minneapolis. He took great pride in his work, although he certainly didn’t enjoy coming home covered in flour. He eventually sought a cleaner job and was offered a cost accounting position with FMC’s Northern Ordnance Division in Fridley, Minnesota. He spent the majority of his working life there. Even in retirement, Frank continued to put his accounting skills to use at VEE Corporation, home of Sesame Street Live. He enjoyed working alongside creative-minded people who were always up for a good joke or a laugh.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Gustav and Juliana Fredrick; his wife, Mary (Shore) Fredrick; his siblings, Shirley (Fredrick) Martire, George Fredrick and his wife, Marlys, David Fredrick and his wife, Mercia, Paulette (Fredrick) Nehotte and her husband, Richard, and James Fredrick; and his grandchildren, Victoria and Franklin Roth.

Frank is survived by his daughter, Megan, and son-in-law, Patrick Jaworski; his beloved grandchildren, Kayli Grace Roth, Addison Jaworski, and Dylan Jaworski; his brother-in-law, Leonard Martire; his stepbrother, Fred Nystrom; and extended family members and dear friends whom he loved and considered his own family.

Frank attended The Church of the Epiphany in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, and St. Timothy’s in Blaine, Minnesota. He also enjoyed sharing meals at Bakers Square, where Frank and Mary made several close friends. In 2023, the couple sold their home in Coon Rapids and moved to New Richmond, Wisconsin, to downsize and be closer to family.

Frank was a doting husband, a caring father, and a playful grandpa. He was always quick to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and never met a piece of fuzz he wouldn’t stop to pick up off the floor. Frank brought smiles and humor to everyone around him. He was naturally positive, laid-back, hardworking, dependable, and quick-witted.

The memories Frank leaves behind with everyone who knew him or crossed his path will continue to bring joy and smiles in his absence. Frank was one of the good ones. We will miss him dearly, but we find comfort in knowing he is now in the loving arms of God, reunited with Mary, his brothers and sisters, his grandchildren, and so many family members and friends. We can picture him playing cards, laughing, sharing stories, and poking fun at Mary and everyone else once again. He is right where he belongs, surrounded by love and laughter.

Frank’s columbarium interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Friday, November 20, 2026, 9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. Those wishing to attend should plan to arrive at the Assembly Area by 9:15 a.m. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.