Frederick Robert Wells, 91, of Freeport, IL, passed away on June 1, 2024. He was born in Oak Park, IL, on June 19, 1932, to parents Walter Dryer and Violet (Andersen) Wells. He married Eleanor Jane Kehoe on September 26, 1959 at St Mary's Catholic Church, Freeport IL.

He is survived by his wife, Eleanor (Elle) (Kehoe) Wells, daughter Karen (Tim) Dougherty, sons Michael (Teresa) Wells, Stephen Wells (Carl Ambruoso), and John Wells. Grandchildren Jessica (Aaron) Hodges, Christopher (Jessica) Underwood, Christopher Wells, Hannah Wells, Irving Robinson, Fernando Robinson, Sarah Robinson, Sophia Robinson.

He was preceded in death by daughter Barbara Jean Wells, parents Walter and Violet (Andersen) Wells, brother Walter D. Wells II, sister-in law Hildegaard Wells, brothers in law, Donald Kehoe, John Kehoe and Gerald Kehoe, sister-in-law Rebecca Kehoe, and his favorite dog, Hobbes.

Fred spent his career as a Mechanical Designer for a few companies in Northern Illinois and as a Freelance Draftsman. He ended his career designing gas grills' retiring from Thermos Company. Fred and Elle both had several small businesses in downtown Freeport including framing, floral and Earthworks Pottery.

He enjoyed his many years as a Boy Scout leader which gave him many opportunities to serve and spend time outdoors and camping. Fred also spent many hours using his carpentry skills remodeling their home, building a wood strip canoe, and many gifts for kids and grandkids.

Fred was a very intelligent, philosophical, and witty man with a great (sometime quirky) sense of humor who loved to engage in deep conversations. We miss him dearly!

A Celebration of Life will be held at Schwarz Park Blvd. Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd in Freeport IL, on Saturday June 22nd at 11:00 with a light lunch to follow.

A memorial for St. Vincent de Paul is being established in his name.