Obituary of Frederick William Fatzler
Frederick William Fatzler, 93, of Toms River, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 19, 2023.
Fred is survived by his son, Frederick Fatzler, and his wife Cathy of Williamsburg, VA; son, William Fatzler, and his wife Rosa of Verona, NJ; daughter, Patricia DiBiase and her husband David of Toms River, NJ; grandchildren, Anthony, Michael, Christine, and Katelyn; and great-grandchildren, Isabella, Lorenzo, Jordan, and Skye.
He is preceded in death by his sister, Ethel Polnik; sister, Elsie Nizolak; and wife, Eileen Fatzler.
Fred was born on May 8, 1930, in Maplewood, NJ, to William and Elsie Fatzler. He graduated from Columbia High School in 1948. After graduating high school, Fred entered the Army and served as an MP in Germany. He married Eileen in 1951. After returning home from Germany, Fred joined the Maplewood Fire Department, where he served as a Master Mechanic and ultimately earned the rank of Lieutenant. At the time of his passing, Fred was the oldest living retired Maplewood firefighter.
Above all else, Fred was devoted to his wife of 68 years, who was his rock. His children remember him as a dedicated, caring father who taught them to stand up for themselves and pushed them to be their best. His grandchildren fondly recall his unwavering support and all the fun they had together.
Fred was passionate about antique cars. He was an active and dedicated member of the Antique Automobile Club of America NJ Region for many years and attended weekly car shows with his wife, both judging and participating in the events. Later in life, the two helped found a new antique car club, the Tampa Bay Cruisers. Fred also had a love for bowling and traveling. His family and friends will always remember him as an outgoing, strong person.
A public wake will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, N.J. A funeral service will follow, commencing at 12 Noon. Entombment will be held at Somerset Hills Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Fred’s honor to Hospice of New Jersey:
Hospice of New Jersey
400 Broadacres Drive, 1st floor
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
https://hospiceofnewjersey.
