Fred Whitacre Sr. 1948-2025

Fred was born Oct. 22, 1948, in Youngstown, a son to Pershing “Mickey” and Mary Bailey Whitacre.

He was a 1966 graduate of Girard High School.

Fred devoted a significant part of his career to the steel industry, spending over 20 years at Youngstown Steel Door. He also worked many years as a truck driver, constantly embodying the spirit of the blue-collar worker.

In addition to his professional life, Fred found great joy in his personal pursuits. He enjoyed spending time at the Iron Skillet with friends and co-workers for several years. Fred was interested in politics and — like his mother — greatly appreciated American Indian culture and memorabilia. He enjoyed fishing and spending time at Lake Erie and Lake Milton.

Fred was an avid football fan, cheering on the Cleveland Browns and The Ohio State Buckeyes. He told his sons in the early 1980s, “As long as the Browns win one Super Bowl before I’m gone, I’ll be satisfied.” Obviously, the Browns did not hold up their end of the bargain.

He was a family man and a hard worker, selflessly making every effort to provide for his children — while taking nothing for himself.

Fred leaves behind his children, Fred (Erin) Whitacre Jr. and Donnie (Kelsey) Whitacre; brother, Mickey (Diane) Whitacre; and cherished his grandchildren, Everett, Porter, Fitch and Roe.

Besides his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his sister, Cheryl Mayo.

As requested by Fred, there will be no services.

His favorite quote over the past few years was, “To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is not to die.” If this statement rings true, Fred will truly have life eternal.

Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to the family.

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