Frederick Harris Birch

Frederick H. Birch was born on December 6, 1927, in Mobile, Alabama. He shared his December 6 birthday with his wife of nearly sixty years, Celeste. Fred lost both his mother and his father by his 3rd birthday, and was raised by his aunt and uncle, Arnita and Gus Jackson. He went to St. Peter Claver grade school, and graduated from Heart of Mary high school. His teachers recognized that he was very smart and moved him up to the next grade in school on several occasions. He graduated from high school at the age of 15, and immediately went to work for the U.S. Postal Service. When eligible, he was drafted into the military during World War II, and served for three years. He then returned to the Post Office, and continued a career which ultimately lasted 42 years.

Knowledge and service were the hallmarks of Fred’s life. He was well-read and knowledgeable on a wide range of topics from electronics to car mechanics, religion, carpentry, politics, and medicine, and was able to comprehend and intelligently discuss any subject. Family and friends sought – and received – sound advice from Fred. But Fred went beyond simply giving counsel; he gave of himself and his time unselfishly. No one knows the number of televisions, radios, transmissions, appliances, faucets, broken pipes, radiators, electric circuits, etc., etc., that Fred fixed for his family, friends, and others in need. He built a house for himself and his family in the early 1950’s, and then doubled the size of the house in the 1960’s. Later, after he retired in 1986, he built a house for his son Victor and his family. Still later, during his retirement years Fred developed a surprising ability to comprehend and interpret medical and pharmaceutical data (sometimes to the consternation of his doctors).

When his sons were young Fred devoted much of his time to little league football. For years Fred influenced young lives by coaching, supplying uniforms and equipment, providing transportation, and being a good role model and mentoring. Fred was an active member of St. Joan of Arc parish. For many years he ushered, handled collections and bank deposit, and assisted the priest with the church in many other ways.

Fred’s children are Sheila, Aleada, Erich, Carmen and Victor. His grandchildren are Dawn, Kimberly, Reginald, Jabriel, Elise, Ircka, Erich, Ivan, Victor, Leah and Gregory. His great grandchildren (so far) are Brianna, Jayla, Markel, Lauren, Isabella, Kelise, Zara, Amerie, Caedmon (Frederick), Kai, Erich, Elizabeth, and Xavier.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Saturday, January 8, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the 10:45 a.m. Rosary. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street is handling arrangements.