Frederick Goetz

Fred Goetz, a spirited soul known for his generous heart and iconic handlebar mustache, passed away just shy of his 91st birthday on September 26, 2025, in Chatfield, MN. Born on September 27, 1934, in Fairwater, MN, he was the son of Charles and Ethel Goetz.

Fred lived a life full of adventures and contributions. After growing up in Fairwater, he proudly served in the army and later became a skilled electrical engineer with United Airlines, where he dedicated over 30 years of his life working at O'Hare Airport. He was not only a beloved family man, marrying his wife Judy and raising three children together, but he was also deeply committed to his community and his faith.

A generous philanthropist, Fred volunteered his time at the local Bible church and took on ambitious projects like building Noah's Ark in Kentucky. He was a champion for missionaries overseas, helping them with their efforts and even building and installing the elevator in the Eyota Church, truly doing the Lord's work. Fred had a deep passion for gardening and his Farmall Cub tractors.

Fred was a feisty and stubborn character, known to bring a smile with his quirky antics. He had a passion for planting walnut trees and was an avid world traveler, always eager to explore new places and meet new faces.

Fred is survived by his wife, Verlie; children, Billy Goetz, Lora Lee Goggin, Bruce (Tina Hansen) Goetz; siblings, Winnifred (Rich) Unnasch, Christena Decker, Joyce Malone; several grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and good friend, Johnny Felciano.

He is preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Judy; brothers, Charles Jr. and Dennis; sisters, Sarah and LaVonne; grandchildren, Caitlyn Goetz and Laehn Taylor.

Funeral Services will be on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at St. Charles Bible Church at 11am. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Fred will be laid to rest at Witoka Cemetery.