Frederic K. Benedict Jr.'s Obituary
Frederic K. Benedict, Jr, 95, of Croton, passed away Wednesday, January 2, 2019, at Royal View Retirement Community in Canadian Lakes with family by his side.
He was born March 19, 1923, in Big Rapids, the son of Frederic Sr. and Lillian (Nurmi) Benedict, and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1941. In 1942 Fred joined the U.S. Army Air Corp, and was stationed in France during WWII.
Honorably discharged from the service in 1945, Fred went to work as a machinist with his father at Benedict Manufacturing in Big Rapids, where he eventually rose to become President of the company. Fred grew the manufacturing business by producing parts for the auto industry, and was a supplier of hose fittings to the U.S. Navy ship building programs. He continued to work for Benedict Manufacturing until his retirement in 1988.
Fred's favorite place to be was at his home, "The Shack" on Croton Pond. He spent many hours caring for his beautiful landscape, and would always welcome visitors to sit and chat, while enjoying the beautiful view of the Muskegon River. Fred was an avid snowmobiler and took several trips to the Upper Peninsula with family, friends, and customers. He will long be remembered by family and friends for his generosity and caring heart.
He is survived by his brother Jack (Nerita) Benedict of Scottsdale, AZ; two nephews, Tom (Marian) Benedict and Mark (Maridee) Ryan; three nieces, Jill (Ron) Aye, Kelle (Brad) Snavely, and Carolyn (Randy) Holmes; and several great nieces and nephews. Fred was preceded in death by his parents, his lifelong companion Barbara Bloomquist in 2003, sisters Mariam Ryan and Helen Hood, and nephews, Fred Ryan, Robert Hood, and Charles Hood.
At Fred's request , there will be no service. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for Royal View Assisted Living or Great Lakes Caring Hospice. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
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