1-03-2022 9:48pm

George Fredin (1932-2022) joined the Army at age 16, later became a state trooper

Michael McGinnis Editor

George R. Fredin passed away at Eastbank Rehab Center on Saturday, January 1, 2022, at the age of 89. George was born in Rockford, Illinois on February 24, 1932, to Thor Fredin and Elsa Lilja.

George was a member of the Roscoe VFW, American Legion and Korean War Vet Association as well as the Veterans of Underage Military Service. After graduating from Rockford East High School, he joined the U.S. Army in 1948. At age 16, he was too young to enlist legally, but during a military career that lasted over 43 years, he worked his way up the ranks to become a Command Sergeant Major, the senior enlisted advisor to the commanding officer. He received numerous awards, honors and medals during the time he served. The Korean government even awarded him a Bronze Star. After his military career ended, George became an Illinois state trooper stationed out of Pecatonica and continued with them until he retired.

In 1953 George married Mary Frisella. They were blessed with three daughters and enjoyed a happy life together. Mary passed away in 1979. A few years later, George met Shirley Kemnetz and they married on July 30, 1982. She passed away in 2012.

George was an amazing gardener and was well known for his “legendary” garlic and tomatoes. He was also an avid fisherman. In 1994 he was presented with a Top Amateur Fisherman award.

George is survived by his loving daughters Elaine (Steve) Olson, Pauline Keehn, Trina (Jay) Durstock; grandchildren Matthew, Steven (Lisa), Michael ( Fiance – Andrea), Bill (Mary); and great–grandchild Sophia.

George is predeceased by his spouses Mary Fredin and Shirley Fredin; parents Elsa and Thor Fredin; and grandchildren Daniel Forrest and infant Melissa Forrest.

The funeral service will be held at Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 11342 Main St. in Roscoe, IL. on Thursday, January 6, 2022, at 5:30 pm. A visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until the time of service. A celebration of life will follow the service at 6:30 pm at the Roscoe VFW, 11385 2nd St. in Roscoe.

A graveside service, with full military honors, will be held on Friday, January 7, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. in the mausoleum at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 8616 W. State Street in Winnebago. Father William Wintink will be officiating. Memorials may be given to the Salvation Army.