In Memory

Fred Smith

Fred Smith

WASHINGTON, MISSOURI - Fred Smith, 75, of Washington, MO, passed away Friday, October 19, 2018. He was born on July 14, 1943. He attended Highland Park High School in Topeka, KS after which he served in the US Army in Germany and Vietnam.

Fred owned and operated many businesses during his career. He began his working life as a busboy on the Kansas turnpike while attending high school. After returning to Topeka from the army, he operated the restaurant at Meadow Lanes bowling alley, and was the manager at Howard Johnson's turnpike restaurants in Topeka and Lawrence. Also in Topeka, he owned private clubs, the Bourbon Barrel, Charlie Brown's, Putsy's, FUBAR's and Muther's tavern. He also operated amateur pool leagues in Kansas, Oklahoma and Missouri.

He loved to travel throughout the United States and Canada, as well as "taking a ride" almost every day around his town and county in Missouri.  He enjoyed talking with people and being outdoors.

Fred is survived by his wife Joan Rellergert of Washington, MO; 5 step-daughters, 2 step-sons; and 14 step-grandchildren.

Fred Smith



 
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10/30/18 07:19 PM #3    

Carol England

Oh Fred, you will be missed. The world was a little more exciting when Fred was around. Miss you , big guy


10/31/18 06:40 AM #4    

Connie Gotto (Kimble)

Fred was the ultimate true friend. I remember he was there for me during one of the most devastating times of my life. Many nights I would ride my bike to his bar & stay until he closed (receiving his words of wisdom "CTA" to encourage me to fight for me & my kids)). He would then put my bike in his van & drive me home. I will never forget his kindness!


10/31/18 12:11 PM #5    

Jerome Miller

Goodbye Fred, see you later!


10/31/18 04:14 PM #6    

John Shoemaker

I was so sorry to hear the sad news. My heartfelt sympathy to the family and his friends he will be missed.


10/31/18 04:30 PM #7    

Jennie Kistler (Nixon)

I am so sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. I extend my sympathy to his family. Fred was always lot of fun and a really nice person. May he Rest In Peace. 


10/31/18 05:35 PM #8    

Becky Bayless (Remy)

I didn't know Fred well, but he had such a colorful personality ... once you met him, you never forgot him. He was always welcoming and fun. I'm sorry we had to lose him too soon. He made the world a better place. My condolences to his family and friends. 


10/31/18 05:38 PM #9    

Dianna Hull (Porter)

As far as I was able to tell, Fred mostly was in charge of raising himself, which he accomplished.  Also getting through HPHS, which he did.  And then went on to be a self-made man.  He was a sweetie with rough edges and also somewhat of a poet.  Thank you for choosing us to go to school with.  R.I.P.


10/31/18 07:42 PM #10    

Jim Arnold

Fred was a good guy! Rest In Peace friend...


11/01/18 10:26 AM #11    

Jim Willison

So many memories and stories come to mind about Fred, I could go on for hours. Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed.


11/03/18 01:03 PM #12    

Beverly Abmeyer (Wood)

We will all be missing the bright energy of Fred.  He always made us laugh and he always had a plan.  RIP Fred.   I remember when we would drive out to the Turnpike Restaurant to eat when Fred was working there.  


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