Fred John Benedek Jr.
Fred John Benedek Jr.
November 23, 1942 – November 11, 2022
Fred passed away peacefully at home in his favorite recliner on 11.11. 22 (11 was his favorite number!), at the age of 79. Fred fought a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer and lived six days beyond his goal of seeing his oldest granddaughter get married on her wedding day. He was predeceased in death by parents, Fred Sr. and Mildred Benedek. He is survived by his partner of 36 years Karyn Moergen, daughters Mary (Charlie) Ernst, Sharon (Charlie) Hartung, son Ken (Shannon) Benedek, and bonus children John Claspille and Brooke (Pat) Walter. Fred’s greatest joy came from his grandchildren Carson (Kevin) Tippit, Callie, Charlie & Chandler Hartung, Sydney & Chaz Ernst, Zachary, Madelyn & Jessica Benedek, Audrey Walter, and Karsen & Aaron Jurenka.
Fred was born November 23, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri. Fred graduated from Mehlville High School in 1960 and started his auto focused career at the Fina Station on Telegraph Rd. He continued his career at Kemps Auto, A & S Auto Supply, Don Essen Chevrolet, Elco Chevrolet and Stephen Vincel Honda until retirement. Fred was a member of Teamsters Local #618.
Fred was an avid fisherman, hunter, Nascar fan and a great friend to many. He loved country music and played the accordion and electric guitar. He was a man who didn’t waste words, yet was known by all as exceedingly humble, sweet, kind, and with such a big heart and smile. Fred was a legendary lover of parties, and was especially drawn to any babies and animals in attendance … and they to him! His gentle spirit was like a magnet!
To honor Fred’s wishes and his memory, we are hosting a Celebration Of Life on Saturday, January 7th, 2023 at St. Alban Roe Mikesch Hall from 1pm-4pm. We invite anyone who knew Fred to attend and help us celebrate and remember his wonderful life.
In lieu of flowers or other items, please consider donating to:
St Jude Children’s Hospital – https://www.stjude.org
National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation – https://www.npcf.us
So many memories of my very special cousin. We were less than three weeks apart in age and lived so close together, so we had many adventures growing up; he was more like a brother than a cousin. Rest In Peace in Heaven, Fred. Your pain and suffering have ended and you have been reunited with your Mom and Dad as well as others who have gone before. I will always treasure your memory; you will live in my heart forever. Heartfelt condolences to Mary, Sharon, Ken, Karyn, all Fred’s grandchildren and all those who loved this awesome man. With love, Until we meet again……
Absolutely beautifully presented. The brother I never had. I cherish the memories we shared growing up, fun times. So glad I was able to have time with him shortly before he met his Heavenly Father. We both enjoyed reminiscing. Thank you Mary for sharing. 💙🙏🏼💙
As a dear friend told me when my father died, “you don’t get over it, you just get used to it”. You are all in my thoughts during this hard time. I hope happy memories help get you through this together.
A beautiful video … my cousin wish I knew …Rest in Peace Fred✝️✝️