Fred Aaron Mortensen

Fred was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, on October 20, 1949, to Lester and Doris (Kahler) Mortensen. After graduating from Scottsbluff High School in 1968, he answered a calling larger than himself. On his 18th birthday, Fred enlisted in the United States Navy—beginning a distinguished 23-year career marked by dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering service to his country.

On August 30, 1970, he married the love of his life, Paula (Knaus), in Scottsbluff. Together, they embraced the Navy life with strength and grace, making homes wherever service took them. From Long Beach and San Diego aboard the USS McKean and USS Parson, to a new chapter in Japan when the Parson changed ports, Fred faithfully carried out his duty.

Their journey continued to Scotland, where they welcomed their first daughter, Dawn Michelle, during Fred’s service on the USS Canopus. A move to Virginia brought cherished shore duty and the birth of their second daughter, Christi Anne. The family later lived in Italy during his service on the USS Gilmore, and then in Hawaii, he served on the USS Harold E. Holt. Fred’s career concluded in California on the USS Mars out of Oakland, followed by shore duty on Treasure Island. He retired honorably on November 30, 1991.

After retiring from the Navy, Fred returned with his family to Nebraska, planting roots once again in Mitchell. He brought the same compassion and dedication he showed in service to his work at the Residency and the Mitchell Care Center, where he deeply enjoyed connecting with the residents. He later joined Watson Manufacturing and retired fully in December 2023.

Fred lived a life of service—first to his country, then to his family. He was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was someone stuck on the side of the road or in the mud at the lake. He had a gentle spirit, a steady strength, and a heart that made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

Fred and Paula loved their years on the bowling league together, but their happiest place was out camping with family and friends. Summers were spent at Lake Minatare, Gray Rocks, Guernsey, and Glendo—nearly every weekend—and one especially memorable trip took them all the way to Lake Powell. Fred also had a passion for playing pool, taking part in leagues and tournaments whenever he could. He was a Harley guy through and through; he loved his CVO. Many rides were taken to Deadwood, Keystone, Branson, Estes Park, and more.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Paula; daughters Dawn (Miles) Lemley of Morrill and Christi (Bill) Watson of Morrill; grandchildren Dawson Jacobs, Sabrina Watson, Meagan (Wyatt Buckley) Watson, Ashlee Lemley, and Kenzie (Christopher) Buskirk; great-granddaughters Bralynn and Emberly Lemley, and Ila Buskirk; nephew Aaron (Monica) Lucke, brother-in-law John (Carolyn) Knaus, and nieces Cheli Knaus, Tiffany (Tray) Bouldin, and Sierra Knaus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father- and mother-in-law, Leo and Jean Knaus; sister, Penny Lucke; nephew, Mike Lucke; and grandson, Hunter Lemley.

Funeral services will be Monday, December 1, 2025, at 10 am at Dugan Kramer Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park with military honors. Visitation will be Sunday, November 30 at the chapel from 2-4. Memorials can be made to the family to be designated at a later date. Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com for the Mortensen family.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the oncology and infusion center staff and the Brookstone hospice nurses along with the Safe at Home crew whose compassion and care brought comfort during his final journey.

Your journey is done, but your love still carries us.