Freddie Everette Hamrick

Fred was born on March 12, 1938, in Bergoo, WV and was a devoted family man, a beloved member of the community. He took pride in his Appalachian roots and would often share captivating stories of his upbringing in the Appalachian Mountains.

At the young age of 17, Fred enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving over 2 years (4/1955 – 12/1957). He then transitioned to the Air National Guard, where he dedicated 6 years of service (12/1957 – 10/1965). During a brief break from the military, Fred worked as a baker at Rainbow Bakery (12/1963 – 2/1965). He later re-enlisted in the Air National Guard, serving an additional 6 years (10/1965 – 5/1971). Fred's military journey continued as he rejoined the Air Force for 14 years (5/1971 – 5/1985), ultimately retiring in 1994 after a total of 37 years and 10 months of honorable service. Throughout his military career Fred was stationed at various locations, including Beale Air Force Base in California and Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. He also spent time in Vietnam and Thailand. While serving, Fred worked diligently as a munition’s mechanic on Fighter Planes with the 162nd Fighter Squadron.

On July 11th, 1955, Fred married the love of his life, Joyce Bradley, in Tucson, AZ. Together, they raised two children, Ricky W. Hamrick and Holly A. Hamrick (Tatro). Their children blessed them with two grandchildren, Linwood "Scott" Tatro and Brandon W. Hamrick. Fred and Joyce celebrated 58 years of marriage together.

Fred had an unwavering passion for Baseball and Softball. He dedicated himself to coaching numerous baseball teams alongside his lifelong friend, Don Howard. Together, they transformed a mere dirt lot into the remarkable Vista de Pardo baseball field. Later, they facilitated the installation of lights at the Santa Rita High School baseball field for the boys' benefit. When Ricky pursued college baseball, Fred turned his attention to coaching Holly in softball. He was an integral part of the coaching staff that led the very first Bobby Sox team to the National Tournament. Fred's true passion in softball, however, was teaching pitching to any player willing to learn or needing assistance. In his later years, he joyfully coached his grandsons in Little League as well.

While teaching his children to drive, Fred patiently assisted his son Ricky in rebuilding a 1965 Ford Mustang engine, which ultimately became Ricky's car. He calmly guided both children through the process of learning to drive, never raising his voice, but instead offering gentle explanations of their mistakes and suggestions for improvement.

He cherished spending quality time with friends and family, whether in Tucson, the White Mountains, or his beloved West Virginia. For many years, he would rise early to enjoy breakfast at Joe's Pancake House with his son-in-law, Mick Tatro. Fred relished the company of dear friends, engaging in heartfelt conversations that could last for hours.

As a proud West Virginian whose heartbeat to the rhythm of country music, and whose soul found solace in the lyrics of Almost Heaven, West Virginia - 'Take Me Home, Country Roads.' Fred's unwavering faith in God mirrored his belief that 'God willing, and the creek don't rise.' He would explain that the 'creek' referred not to a body of water, but to the Creek Indian Tribe. Another favorite saying of his was 'Git 'er done.'

His devotion to his family knew no bounds. During his time stationed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he would make the journey home every Friday night, returning back Sunday night, just to be with his loved ones. He was the beloved neighborhood Father, calling everyone home with his distinctive whistle after the sun went down, meaning it was time for everyone to retire for the evening. He took immense pride in the accomplishments of his two children and two grandsons. Fred had a gift for connecting with others through his countless family stories and life experiences.

Dogs held a special place in Fred's heart, particularly his cherished dogs, Blackie, Peanut, and his recent pup, Angel. Together, they weathered life's ups and downs. In many aspects, Angel gave Fred life and daily enjoyment in his closing years. Angel will deeply miss his loyal friend. Fred was a dedicated life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Additionally, he was a proud and passionate supporter of the University of Arizona Athletics Program, especially when it came to football.

Fred Hamrick will forever be remembered as a loving family man, a cherished friend, and a repository of captivating life stories. His memory will live on in the hearts of many, as we honor the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.

Fred was predeceased by his Father: Elmer Hamrick, Mother: Iris Hamrick, Brother: Charles Hamrick (Betty), Sister: Opal Davis (Lonnie), Brother-in-Law: Emery Hamrick, Wife: Joyce Hamrick, Son: Ricky Hamrick, Son-in-Law: Mick Tatro, Nephew: Roger Atkinson, and loving friends, Paul Harkins, Jerry & Ray Kopman, and Jan & Bob Branch. He is lovingly survived by Sister: Iva Hamrick, Daughter: Holly A. Tatro, Grandsons: Linwood "Scott" Tatro, and Brandon Hamrick, Niece: Wendy Haven (Phil) along with many other nephews & nieces. Fred is also survived by many great friends.

Services with be held at East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery on August 26th, 2023, starting at 1:30pm with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Linwood "Scott" Tatro for the Amity Foundation, in memory of Fred Hamrick. Preferred forms of donations are: Venmo: Linwood-Tatro-1 Zelle: (520) 820-1688 Cash/Checks accepted at service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eastlawnpalmsmortuary.com for the Hamrick family.