Frederick Goetler

Frederick B. Goetler, born on March 5, 1936, in Sharon, WI, USA, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025. He was a long-time resident of Rockton, IL. Frederick, or Fred as he was affectionately known, lived a life marked by dedication, humility, and love. He was a beloved husband, having been married since March 21, 1957, to his supportive wife, Catherine Goetler. He was a proud father, a doting grandfather, and a loving great-grandfather.

Frederick was well-known for his dedicated service to his country, having proudly served for 8 years in the U. S. Air Force. Following his service, he embarked on a fulfilling career as an Electronic Technician and spent 33 years at Woodward in Rockford, IL, in the manufacturing industry. Fred was also a man of many passions. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and was an accomplished bowler, having bowled a perfect 300 game. As an avid Green Bay Packer fan, he never missed a game, and his support extended beyond the team to his entire family. Frederick was a humble man, but his dedication and love for his family were evident to all who knew him.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Willowick in Clinton, WI for their compassionate care of Fred and Cathy over the past two years. We are also deeply grateful to Heartland Hospice for their support, as well as to friends Laura and Steve Johnson, and Pastor Stein for their thoughtful visits.

Frederick is survived by his wife, Catherine Goetler; daughters, Cherie (Neal) Dollinger, Sharon (David) Goode; son, Gerald (Pam) Goetler; grandchildren, Joshua Dollinger, Kali (Matt) Gray, Evan (Ricci) Goetler, Hannah Goetler, Nick (CeCe) Goode; and great-grandchildren, Jaxon Dollinger, Kolton Dollinger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Sr. and Angeline Goetler; his brother, David Goetler; sister, Loraine Alvin; and brother, LeRoy Goetler.

A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 15, 2025 in St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 511 W. Rockton Rd., Rockton, IL with Reverend Don Stein officiating. A visitation will be held at church from 9:00 a.m. until time of service on Friday.

Frederick's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Frederick to the memorial page, carrying on the legacy of a man who was so dedicated, humble, loving, and supportive in his lifetime.