James D. “Jim” Fredel
James Dale “Jim” Fredel, 81, of Winamac, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 27, at Pulaski Health Care Center in Winamac.
He was born on Sept. 8, 1944 in Winamac to the late Michael and Stephine “Stella” (Wolak) Fredel. Jim graduated from Winamac High School and earned an Associate’s Degree from Indiana State University. He was drafted into the US Army and served as a helicopter gunner in Vietnam. On Feb. 8, 1969, Jim married Lucinda K. “Cindy” Foerg at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Winamac. They made their home on the Tippecanoe River where they were blessed with good neighbors and many years of happiness. Cindy passed away unexpectedly on May 24, 2003.
Jim was a devout Catholic and longtime member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church. He was a beloved scout leader for BSA Troop #229 and a former member of the Winamac Knights of Columbus and VFW. Jim retired from Farm Bureau Co-Op after 40 plus years of dedicated service. Early in his career, he ran the Winamac store before becoming a petroleum driver, delivering fuel to local farmers. He also facilitated relationships with area factories, providing them with oils and lubricants. Jim was the last “fully commissioned petroleum driver” in the State of Indiana at the time of his retirement. Workday mornings often began with a cup of coffee at the Colonial Inn, and when his son, Brian, was old enough he found a reliable helper to paint fuel tanks.
He was a proud “Papa” to his grandkids, Lauren and Logan, whom he supported throughout their endeavors in school, athletics, fine arts, and 4-H. Jim enjoyed golfing, camping, traveling, fishing, going out to eat, and spending time on the family farm. Over the years, he played in numerous golf leagues at Pond View and Moss Creek. Many great memories were made camping with the “Stew Crew” at the Tippecanoe River State Park and beyond. For the past 22 years, Jim was blessed with a loving companionship he shared with Marlene Girton. He cherished the simple things in life, like people watching from Marlene’s front porch and having breakfast with her at Oak Grove. Jim was a kind and loving man who cared deeply for his family, friends, and ag-community.
He is survived by son Brian [wife: Kristeen] Fredel, Winamac; granddaughter Lauren [fiancé: Evan Eaton] Fredel, Winamac; grandson Logan Fredel, Winamac; sister-in-law Becky [husband: Rick] Rivers, Logansport; brother-in-law Garry [wife: Kim] Foerg, Winamac; many nieces, nephews and cousins; companion Marlene Girton, Winamac; and Marlene’s sons: Brian Girton and Brad Girton and Family.
Preceded in death by parents: Michael and Stephine “Stella” (Wolak) Fredel; wife Lucinda K. “Cindy” (Foerg) Fredel; sister Geraldine “Jerry” [husband: Rudy] Rose; brother Richard [wife: Joanne] Fredel; in-laws: Donald and Betty (Button) Foerg Brown; and brother-in-law Jeff [wife: Deb] Foerg.
A scriptural wake service was held at 3 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 1, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Visitation was from 3:30-8 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 1, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
A Funeral Mass was held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 2, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Winamac with Rev. Dennis Faker officiating.
Burial took place at St. Peter’s Cemetery. The American Legion and VFW will conduct military graveside services.
Memorial contributions may be made to BSA Troop #229.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
(Pulaski County Journal — Sept. 2, 2026)