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Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 62 years, Elizabeth A. Teitzel; his mother, MaryLou McCandless; and his father, Fred H. Teitzel.
He is survived by his son, William “Bill” Teitzel (Jennifer); his sister, Arlene Selchert (Norm); his grandchildren, Blake Teitzel and Brianna Uy (Dennis); and his great-grandchildren, Jaelyn and Evren Uy, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Fred spent his early years in the Forest community, beginning school at the Forest Schoolhouse before continuing on to Cascade Elementary. He graduated from W.F. West High School with the Class of 1959. At just 12 years old, Fred took on significant responsibility helping operate the family dairy after his father became ill — an early reflection of the strong work ethic that would define his life.
At the age of 16, Fred met Elizabeth “Betty Ann” Estep, and the two were married in 1963. Together, they built a life centered on family, welcoming their son, Bill, in 1966. In 1970, Fred moved his family to the Miller Farm, a place that would remain his home for the rest of his life and a cornerstone of a six-generation family legacy.
Over the years, Fred worked in agriculture, construction and the timber industry before beginning a long career in 1981 at TransAlta, formerly Widco, where he operated heavy equipment, including dozers. He retired in 2006, though retirement for Fred simply meant more time spent traveling, tending to the sheep farm and enjoying life outdoors.
Fred had a deep passion for the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, or riding off-road motorcycles with family and friends. He was widely known as a skilled marksman and took great pride in his rifle-shooting abilities. Beyond his skills, Fred will be remembered as a gifted storyteller with a remarkable knowledge of local history — stories he generously shared with anyone willing to listen.
A lifelong member of the Forest Grange, Fred valued community and connection, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Funeral services will be held May 18, with a graveside service at Napavine Cemetery at 11 a.m., followed by a gathering at the Forest Grange Hall, 3400 Jackson Highway, Chehalis, at noon. Lunch will be provided by the family.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Chehalis West Assisted Living and Memory Care for the attentive care, kindness and dignity they provided to Fred during his final months.
Fred’s life was one of dedication — to his family, his work and his community. His legacy lives on in the generations he helped raise, the land he cared for, and the many stories that will continue to be told in his memory.
