Frederick "Fred" Joseph Fox

Frederick "Fred" Joseph Fox, born March 24, 1944, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin to Coletta (Flanagan) and Fred Fuchs, Jr.  Fred has gracefully departed this earthly realm at the age of 79. Fred, also known as the "Skiing Chemist" and "The Mad Scientist," left us for his final adventure on September 28^th, 2023.

After graduating from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Fred embarked on a lifelong career at 3M as a chemist. He held not one, not two, but three patents! It was 3M where his love for labels and tape began. Specifically, the reflective varieties were cherished, boxes of which were saved and used in many creative ways over the years. If you have been to Fred’s for one of his infamous hot tub parties, I am sure you noticed.

When he wasn't in the lab, Fred could be found on the slopes. Fred was not only a member of many ski clubs over the years, he loved running ski trips,  being with friends, and meeting new people.  When an organization didn’t work for him, he would start a new club. He was a founding member of the Ski Hawks Ski Club and Phloatin Activities which are both active today.

Fred had a need for speed that extended beyond the ski slopes. He loved riding motorcycles and boating, often combining the two for adrenaline-pumping aquatic escapades that left us all shaking our heads in disbelief. His life was an epic adventure. Fred was an avid political junkie, and while he claimed to be independent, his tv was continuously tuned into MSNBC. If you lent him your ear, he would talk for hours frequently laughing at the shenanigans happening in our bizarre world.

Fred was preceded in death by his brother Charles "Chuck" Fuchs, who was always there to set the example about how to have fun.

Fred leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his daughters, Lynn Fox of Fond du Lac, WI; Cheryl (Matthew) Willius of Stillwater, MN; Cindy (Ross) Stewart of Elkhart, IN; and their mother, Mary Lee Pergande of Fond du Lac, WI. While rarely admitting to being a grandparent, he had 4 grandchildren, Hailey and Nathaniel Willius, Callum and Aidan Stewart which he considered his friends and loved dearly.

In addition, Fred is survived by his devoted sister Rosemarie Robinson of Traverse City, MI, whom was always there for him; and his favorite sister-in-law, Jean Fuchs of Vernon, AL, who will forever have the responsibility to explain the family's confusing naming history; and a slew of nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish the memories of his wild escapades.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Fred's incredible life on Saturday, November 4th, from 3-7pm at Fred Fox’s Den at 6581 Upper 28^th St N, Oakdale, MN. There will be stories, laughter, and perhaps a few misadventures in his honor. Per Fred’s request LOTS of PIZZA will be available and in lieu of flowers, please consider bringing your favorite micro beer to share or anything that reminds you of Fred.

Fred, you may have left us, but your spirit of adventure and laughter will forever live on in our hearts. Farewell, Skiing Chemist, and may you find the perfect run among the stars.