Fred worked for Industrial Gunite and Channel Refractory Services doing Gunite-Refractory Construction for over 45 years. He was a member of Memorial North Baptist Church for many years. Fred enjoyed fishing at his lake house and hunting with friends and family. However, his favorite pastime was keeping tabs on all his kids and grandkids locations. He knew where everyone was at all times.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three of his brothers, and one of his sisters.
Fred is survived by his dedicated wife of 63 years, Donna Rather; daughters, Freda Rather, and Terry and James Callenius; grandchildren, Joshua Milligan, Shayce Haifley, Sydni and Dallin Christensen, James Callenius Jr., and Colt Callenius; great-granchildren, Briley Milligan, Breelyn Haifley, Jayson Haifley, Ryder Nino, Jayden Milligan, Tallon Christensen, Cove Christensen, Kade Callenius, and Caroline Callenius. His brothers Joe Rather, Charles Rather and Tommy Rather. His sisters Julia Keene and Lois Cumberland. As well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Memorial North Baptist Church located at 14120 TX-146, Dayton, TX 77535, with visitation to be held from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm and service to begin at 1:00 pm, with Rev. Randy Piatt officiating. The committal will follow at Palms Memorial Park Cemetery, in Dayton, Texas.
Honored to serve as pallbearers: Joshua Milligan, James Callenius Sr, James Callenius Jr, Dallin Christensen, Jayson Haifley, and David Abernathy.
