Frederick William Gifford

He completed two years of high school while attending St. James English Boarding School in Chile, where he excelled in athletics including track, gymnastics, soccer, and boxing. Raised in the Protestant faith, he was also active in the church choir during his boarding school years.

In 1946, under government mandate, Frederick served in the Argentine Army, fulfilling his duties during an important period of his early adulthood. He began his career in the 1940s working for an electric company, where he developed the technical skills that would guide his professional life. He later spent 18 years as a mechanic for Argentine Airlines, followed by work as both an electrician and mechanic for Laughlan Porter.

In 1949, following a major earthquake in Río Grande, Frederick met the love of his life, Margarita Zapico. They were married on October 14, 1950, and shared 70 years of love and devotion.

In 1968, he moved to New Zealand, where he worked for Triton Oil and Gas Company as an electrician and mechanic. In 1971, he came to the United States and worked for Meither Machine Works until 1973. He then returned to Argentina, where he owned and operated an electrical store and a small engine repair shop until 1975. After returning to the United States, he resumed his career with Meither Machine Works, where he worked until the company closed. In 1986, he began working for Arrow Trucking Company, where he continued his career until retirement.

Frederick was known to all who knew him as the most patient and loving person. He was honest, humble, and understanding, with a strong work ethic and a remarkable ability to master any task he set his mind to. A true jack of all trades, he could fix anything and excelled in every endeavor he undertook.

Frederick enjoyed an active and adventurous life. His hobbies included swimming, water skiing, ice skating, hunting, and fishing. He also loved dancing, listening to music—especially tangos—playing the violin, and watching westerns. He cherished spending time outdoors and sharing these activities and simple pleasures with family and friends.

He is survived by daughters Mabel Chamorro and Carlos of St. Bernardo, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Brenda Gifford of Odessa, Texas; and Susy Cleaveland and Jim Cleaveland of Loveland, Colorado. He is also survived by son William “Willy” Gifford and Betty Gifford of Marshall, Texas.

He is also survived by grandchildren William Gifford and Donna; Tony Gifford and Rebecca; Yanina Enriquez and Christian; Beverly Gifford and Robert Rangel; Steven Gifford and Lisette; Martin Chamorro and Lili; Lynn Haigh and Robbie; Shawn Gifford; Christy Barnes; Crystal Hudson; Amy Carrillo and Jason; Brenda Chamorro; Diana Chamorro; and Kyle Cleaveland and Kaitlyn. Frederick was further blessed with numerous great-grandchildren who brought joy to his later years.

He was preceded in death by parents Frederick Thomas and Elizabeth Gifford; sister Gladys Martinez; beloved wife Margarita “Mimi” Gifford; son Henry Gifford; grandson Daniel Gifford; and great-grandson Jack Barnes.

Frederick was lovingly known to family as “Papi.” He had a deep love for animals, including cats, dogs, and birds, and his gentle nature extended to all creatures. He will be remembered for patience, kindness, and the unwavering love he shared with family and friends

The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Odessa Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place at the same venue on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11:00 am with Rev. Dr. Jimmy Braswell officiating.