Frederick Louis Formann Jr.

Frederick Louis Formann Jr. , of O’Fallon, MO, passed away Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the age of 80. Cherished son of the late Kathleen E. and Frederick L Formann, Sr.; dear brother of Sharon Formann Wade (Rickard) Pittman, and Dennis (Linda) Formann; loving uncle of 6, predeceased by his nephew Gerald (Jerry) Wade of Chicago, IL; cousin of Patricia Metz, and Martha (Dennis) Cordia. He also leaves his good friend, Dennis Binsbacher, and a host of other relatives and friends to cherish his memories.

Fred looked forward to reaching the milestone of 80 with anticipation, always maintaining a sense of pride in his personal care and grooming. Despite being born with a handicap  Fred displayed remarkable resilience. Never one to complain or harbor bitterness, he found inventive ways to perform tasks with just his left arm, earning admiration from neighborhood kids who considered him an integral part of their close-knit group. Organizing the "Goodale Neighborhood Carnival" with games and charging participants. He participated in sports including kickball, wiffle ball and many more sports. Fred showcased his skills with an inclusive spirit. Fred, with a baseball glove like the rest of us, skillfully fielded balls with his one hand, throwing the glove in the air and making plays that mirrored his peers. Fred worked at the National Personnel Records Center (on Page Avenue, Overland, MO) from 1977-2006. He retired after 29 years of photocopying military records, and reconstructing those that were damaged in the 1973 fire. Fred received many citations and awards for his hard work and dedication during his employment with the NPRC.

In 2018, Fred made a significant move to Delmar Gardens South, where he was adored by all, especially the Activities Department, who affectionately became known as "Fred's Angels" to the family. Even in his later years, Fred actively participated in community activities, taking charge of Bingo and Keno games for fellow residents, and emerging as a skilled Wii bowler. He not only set records but was also elected Valentine King multiple times at the Valentine's Day party. His dedication extended to religious practices, attending Catholic Mass regularly, praying the rosary, and observing Lent with unwavering commitment. Fred attended All Souls Catholic Church and graduated from Ritenour High School in 1962. Fred’s exceptional memory allowed him to recall dates, birthdays, and intricate baseball statistics, showcasing his enduring loyalty to the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals through both triumphant and challenging seasons. Fond recollections linger of Grandpa and Fred seated at the kitchen table on balmy summer evenings, a whirring fan providing relief as they engaged in endless rounds of dominoes. The ambient backdrop featured Harry Caray's distinctive voice on KMOX radio, passionately narrating the play-by-play of the Cardinals' games. Whether the outcome was victory or defeat, the duo remained steadfast, staying glued to every moment until the final pitch. 

Despite Fred's passing, he leaves an indelible legacy as a cherished hero in the hearts of those who knew him. Remembered as a kind, generous, and loving individual, Fred's impact transcends his physical presence. His sister's' farewell thoughts of Fred expresses it best "I cannot think of anybody who came into Fred's life who was not touched in some special way. I can honestly say, HE NEVER MET A STRANGER! Fred was and always will be MY HERO! I will meet him again someday and at that time I will feel both of his arms surrounding me in a warm 'Welcome home sis' embrace. I cannot wait. I love you Big Brother, always have and always will."

Memorials may be made in Frederick's name to: Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation or Cardinals Care