Frederick C. Decker

Frederick C. Decker, 93, of Essex, CT, passed on August 8, 2024. He was the beloved Husband of 71 years to Kathleen M. Decker, who predeceased him on May 2, 2022. Fred was born in Corona \ Queens, NY, on October 2, 1930, to the late Peter and Ernestine (Stoltz) Decker. His sister, Ruth Albanese, predeceased him. Fred attended the Architectural & Metal Trades School in New York City. Fred & Kathleen were married on December 27, 1950. They brought into the world three sons, Frederick C. Decker II and (Marsha) of Dover, DE, John P. Decker of Deep River, CT, and Peter J. Decker and (Maria) of Essex, CT—former daughter-in-law Susan Watson and Susan Decker of Windham. In addition, Fred and Kaye were blessed to have many grandchildren, Shawn, Erik, Erin, Evan, Emily, Jason, Kyle, Ragan, Kiernan, Jacob, and Michael, and great-grandchildren, Jordan, Justin, Mariah, Lyric, Jayden, Eloria, Ericka, Aryana, Sophia, and Michael.

Fred and Kathleen were longtime residents of Willimantic and Storrs, CT. In retirement, they built homes in Columbia, CT, and The Villages, FL, and moved to Essex in 2018 to be closer to family. After his marriage in 1950, Fred joined the Air Force. He rose to the rank of Master Sergeant, retiring in 1970. He received numerous commendation medals during his career. Trained first in logistics and finally as a gifted recruiter.

In 1970, Fred joined the Willimantic Trust Company and transitioned through numerous banking mergers, retiring in 1996 as Vice President of Bank of America. In his 26 years of service, he helped shape the bank's branch network throughout Eastern Connecticut. In 1996, Bank of America asked him to become an Executive on Loan to the Capital Region United Way.

Whether it be family dinners, birthdays, or holidays, visits with Fred and Kaye were always an opportunity to engage in sporting competitions. Fred was a fierce competitor in stickball, baseball, whiffle ball, softball, football, golf, and unbeatable corkscrew ping pong serve. Fred was a dedicated season ticketholder to the Boston Red Sox. He shared his love of the Red Sox with his grandchildren by bringing them to games. He also loved his NY Giants, and Sunday Family Dinners were always a game day tradition.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the Staff of Commonwealth Senior Living in Haddam and the Staff of Safe Harbor for their extraordinary care and compassion in his final memory care journey.

A private family Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Essex, CT. A private burial will be held for the family. Perhaps most importantly, remember to grab a glove or ball and play catch with your children and grandchildren.