Fred "Fritz" G. Wild

Fred “Fritz” G. Wild, 94, of Winona, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the Winona Health Hospital, surrounded by his family.

He was born on October 24, 1929, in Winona, to Frederick C. and Margaret V. (Lang) Wild.  Fred attended Central Elementary School and graduated from Winona High School.  

Fred honorably served his country with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and was a member of the American Legion.  He was united in marriage with Elaine McLaughlin on May 5, 1951, at St. Martin’s Ev. Lutheran Church, and they enjoyed 57 years of marriage until her passing on May 10, 2008.

He owned and operated the Taverna Barber Supply Company for 36 years until his retirement.  In retirement, Fred enjoyed working at Mid-Town Foods in Winona, and volunteering at the Restored Blessings Store.  He was a member of St. Martin’s Ev. Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher for many years.

Fred loved spending time outdoors duck hunting, fishing, camping at KOA, and riding his motorcycle which he continued to do well into his 80s.  He will be remembered as a kind and compassionate husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Fred is lovingly survived by his children: Debbie Thompson, Laura (Tom) Clay, and Warren Wild; grandchildren: Andrew (Clarissa) Thompson, Kristie (Matt) O’Brien, Kerrie (Russ) Mohr, Casey (Celeste) Clay, Chad (Vy) Clay, Kaitlyn Wild, Justin (Virginia) Kerns, Apryl Kerns, and Joyanna (West) Spier; 13 great-grandchildren; brother: Dick Wild; sister-in-law: Donna Riggle; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine; daughter, Amy Kerns-Hundorf; son-in-law: Tom Thompson; sister, Ethel Wackerle; sister and brother-in-law: Diana and James Ives; and in-laws: Genny Wild, Lois and Leonard Strange, Chuck McLaughlin, and Virgil Riggle.

Honoring Fred’s wishes, funeral services with military honors will be held privately for his family.   He will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Winona.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Fred’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.