Obituary of Frederick Fuoss

Mitchell – Frederick Isidore Fuoss, 56, went to his heavenly home Wednesday, August 17 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital.  Memorial service will be Saturday, September 3, 2022 at 2:00 PM at United Brethren Church in Christ in Milltown with visitation an hour prior to the service. Committal service will follow in Milltown Cemetery.

I think it would be hard to find someone in the LifeQuest family who does not have a memory that brings a smile or laugh when you think of Fred.  Fred left a lasting impression; we will miss him tremendously.

Fred Fuoss passed away early this morning, August 17th, at Queen of Peace Hospital.   Over the past months, Fred health, including many trips to health care providers and the hospital, for respiratory concern, had slowed him a bit, but he still was able to make us smile and warm our hearts.   I suspect this will be the case for many years to come as we remember him.

Fred was born the oldest of six children to Connie and John Fuoss.   Fred grew up on a farm outside of Parkston, SD and enjoyed the adventures of the farm, playing with and taking care of the animals, helping out with some of the chores and getting in mischief with his siblings.   He loved the days on the farm and his family.

Fred attended Parkston School District until 1982, when he made his way to Mitchell and LifeQuest.   Fred lived in various LifeQuest locations, East Elm, Capitol Apartments (no longer exists), Park Place and then his home at the J&L house.   Fred attended Day Services where he worked on piece rated work or spent time playing games of other activities.  

Fred loved the outdoors, and the sun.   There never seemed to be a day that was too hot for him.    He was quick to give you a hug when he thought you were sad or needed one.  June two-two was one of his favorite days, his birthday.   Fred looked forward to “bowling night” and announced it often.  He loved the rodeo and his cowboy hat.  “McDonalds” was a favorite, along with “Pizza Hut”, Rock and Roll” and of course “Diet Coke”.   Fred also encouraged employees to exercise, as he would take us for a walk around the block or neighborhood from time to time.

Fred had many friends, he showed affection graciously, he enjoyed being with his friends and especially liked parties and gatherings, though soaked up the time spent 1:1 with a staff member or someone else as well.    Fred’s trusted friend over the past five years was Dan.   Dan and Fred just meshed.   There wasn’t a beat the other wasn’t in tune with.   Dan and Fred spent numerous hours together and for Fred, he had found a person who, “just understood him”.

Fred also loved having his family visit at his home or going to their home.   He would wait with excitement for their visit.   He loved it when his family would bring pizza and graciously share with all.   He enjoyed going for holidays with them.   Fred loved his family and held them deep in his heart, he appreciated their time together.

We are blessed to have had Fred as a part of the LifeQuest family.   Thank you to all who made each day bright for Fred, for creating a special moment or event and for holding him near in your heart.   You were truly a difference maker in Fred’s life.

Wherever you may be, with or without a diet coke, raise a glass and give a toast to Fred.   He lives in our hearts and memories.