Frederick “Fred” Gustav Gale Diehm, 74, passed away Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at his home.
He was born Dec. 9, 1943, in Mansfield, Ohio to Gustav and Imogene (Carpenter) Diehm. Fred was lovingly raised by his foster parents, Steve and Mary Skindrovic from a young age.
Fred treasured his family above all else and included them in both thought and presence in his activities. His family enjoyed his ornery side and his wit was welcomed by them all. He could fix anything and learned the skills of carpentry and woodworking at a young age. He was a loving and kind man, who was very patriotic and appreciated the freedoms afforded to him by living here.
He loved being outdoors, especially fishing, hunting and camping. Bowling and golfing were two of his favorite pastimes and he most enjoyed doing them with his family.
He graduated from Mansfield Senior High School in 1964. Fred retired from Ideal Electric after 34 years of service. He was a member of Local #8530 Steel Workers Union and served as Recording Secretary for over 20 years.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Donna Diehm; a daughter, Misti (Guy) Minott, of Mansfield; two sons, Philip (Molly) Diehm, of Ashland, and Patrick (Gabrielle) Diehm, of Colorado; nine grandchildren, Shelbi, Nikki, Corey, Kyleigh, Bailey, Keyon, Khloey, Kaelynn and Kyren; three half-sisters, Barb, Marcia and Kathy; a sister-in-law, Phyllis Diehm, of Mansfield; several nieces and nephews; and his canine babies, Gadget and PJ.
He was preceded in death by his foster parents; biological parents; and brother, William Diehm.
The family will receive friends from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 26, 2018, at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will immediately follow at 10 a.m. with Celebrant Mark Dettmer officiating. Fred will be laid to rest in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Southern Care Hospice.
Words of comfort may be expressed to the family at www.wappner.com.
