Russell Freds
Middleville

God reached his hand out and took Russ home April 29, 2018 in Morley, Michigan. Russell Max Freds was born March 25, 1954 in Marshall, the son of Max M. and Phyllis (Hardwick) Freds. On May 9, 1998, Russ married the love of his life, the former Kristen M. Ecker, who survives. Russ graduated from Union City High School in 1972, where he was a standout athlete in many sports. After high school, Russ graduated from Aquinas College, where he starred on the baseball team. After college, Russ played semi-pro basketball and baseball, and he also coached and mentored many youth in both sports. Russ was a member and actively involved at Leighton Church. In his free time, Russ loved working in his yard, fishing, camping, being outdoors, traveling, especially to Alaska, and playing and watching all types of sports. Russ was a well known jack of all trades and a master carpenter. He was an avid Detroit Tigers and U of M fan and enjoyed watching and talking about his beloved Tigers and Wolverines especially with his mother. Russ was often seen wearing his baseball hats where ever he went. Russ was a memorable person who would talk to anyone and never met a stranger. Most importantly, Russ was a beloved husband, son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, who will be greatly missed. Russ is survived by his mother, Phyllis; daughters, Jennifer Freds, Erin (Ryan) Wells, Christina (Julien) Freds-Villa, and Julieanne Freds; a step-daughter, Shannon (John) Arens; a step-son, Shawn (Mindy) Hayward; grandchildren, Tyler, Isaac, Samantha, Esmée, Brianna, Erika (Logan), Joseph (Stephanie) and Tyler (Heather), Bryce and Gordon; great grandchildren, Ariel, Emily, Aizlynn, Damian, and Blakley; a sister, Kathy (Dan) Kever; brothers, Dan (Patty) Freds and Joe (Deborah) Freds; mother-in-law, Mary Ecker; sisters in law, Linda Harmsen and Gayle Bayringer; and many extended family and friends. Russ was preceded in death by his father, Max M. Russell's family will receive friends Saturday, May 5, 2018, 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Leighton Church where his memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Pastor David McBride, officiating. A celebration of Russ’s life will also be held in Union City at a later date. Memorial contributions to Leighton Church Missions or Union City Charger Athletics will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergores.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Russ's family.

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