Fred is preceded in death by his parents.
Fred is survived by his wife, Nita (Walker)Watern, whom he married November 4,1962; son and daughter-in-law, Steven E. and Sandra L. Watern of New Madison, and their children, John Vetter, Shaun and Bud Vanover, Gabriel Watern, Rachel Watern, Tabitha Watern, Timothy Watern, and Daniel Watern; 5 great grandchildren; son and daughter-in-law, Joseph B. and Nina M. Watern of Wapakoneta and their children, Madelynne Watern, Katherynne Watern, Peyton Watern, Carson Watern, Lillyanne Watern and Hayden Watern; adopted daughters, Sandra Nelson and Freda O'Bryan; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Bob and Margie Watern of Florida, Howard and Jan Watern of Florida; sister, Ruth Lambright of Westerville, Ohio; several nieces and nephews.
Fred was an active member of the Harrison Street Baptist Church. He served his country honorably in the United States Army in the 101st Airborne Division as an Airborne Infantry Soldier. Fred retired from the United States Army Reserve with over 21 years of honorable service as a Sergeant First Class, Infantry Instructor with Co. A 2nd BN, 70th Inf Div(IT).During his tenure in the U.S. Army Reserve, Fred was called to active duty to serve during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Fred also retired from the Chrysler Corporation in 1992, after 30 years of loyal service.
Fred enjoyed woodworking, model trains and most of all spending time with his family and grandchildren. Fred was affectionately known as "Papaw Tractor" for his love of antique tractors and would always give his family tractor rides.
Fred was dearly loved by his family and his church family at Harrison Street Baptist Church.
A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, August 24,2016 at 1:00 pm at the Harrison Street Baptist Church, 140 Harrison Street, New Madison, Oh. Friends and Family may call on Wednesday, August 24,2016 from 11:00 am until 1:00pm also at the church.
Memorial contributions in Fred's honor may be made to the Harrison Street Baptist Church.
Services entrusted to Braund Pope Funeral Home in New Madison. Condolences may be sent to www.braundpope.com.com