Fredrick Lee Yeager, Sr.

Fredrick Lee Yeager, Sr., 84, of Meadville, passed away Friday, July 26, 2024, at Meadville Medical Center. 

Fredrick was born in Meadville, on August 20, 1939, a son of the late Wilfred and Elsie Viola (Young) Yeager.

On March 27, 1992 Fredrick married Theresa A. Opalensky; she survives.

He was of the Methodist faith.

Fredrick was a graduate of Saegertown High School. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served his country from December 15, 1960 until his honorable discharge on December 14, 1964. Upon his return home, he became employed by the former Avtex Fibers for three years. In 1967 he began his railroad career with Erie Lackawanna and retired from Norfolk Southern in 2012. Between 1982-1994 Fredrick was laid off from the railroad, and he found work as a house painter, masonry helper, bar tender, roofer, delivery man for a fruit and produce company and returned to Avtex for three years. Over the years Fredrick had been a member of VFW Post #2006, American Legion, Moose Lodge, Vernon Volunteer Fire Department, the former Meadville Club, and the Meadville Eagles Club where he was also a member of the Transportation Bowling League for many years. In his younger years he also coached Little League and played softball for FMC. He enjoyed hunting, following the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Indians, playing cards with family and friends, working in his yard, and tinkering in his garage. Although he claimed to not be much of a carpenter, when he built something, it lasted forever. He was a mastermind in Jeopardy and in working crossword puzzles. An avid reader, he especially enjoyed reading suspense thrillers by Dean Koontz. As Fredrick got older, he developed a deep appreciation for time spent with his USMC buddies as they reminisced of years gone by. Their talks completed his life of good. He loved his family deeply and spending time with his grandchildren brought him great joy. Words can't describe how sweet of a boy, man, husband, dad, and grandpa that he really was. He surely will never be forgotten, he will be sadly missed and forever in our hearts.

In addition to his wife Theresa of 42 years, Fredrick is survived by his family Fredrick Lee Yeager, Jr. (Catherine) of Meadville, Kevin Powell of Sandy Lake, Lena Powell of Seneca, seven grandchildren including Breez Powell of Meadville; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by siblings Patricia Granger, Sharon Cartwright, Shirley Ingmire, Alton Yeager and Charles "Slugger" Yeager.

Family and friends are invited to call from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where the Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 31, with Pastor Jeff St. Clair, of Saegertown United Methodist Church, officiating.

Fredrick will be buried in Denny Cemetery with Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com