Manfred Edward Suess

Preceded in death by Johann A. and Erna K. (Mohr) Suess, and daughter-in-law, Colleen. Beloved husband of 60 years to Gail. Devoted dad to Barbara (Daniel Jr.) Morones, Michael (Debra), Steven (Colleen), Laura, Jeanette (Dennis Jr.) Kopp, Christopher (Jill). Proud grandfather to Adrienne Suess; Preston and Lewis Suess; Noah, Jordan, and Brady Kopp; and Greta, Ruby, and Joshua Suess; step-grandchildren Melinda Robinson, Amanda Kijewski, and Brenda Thurman. Further survived by many other family and friends stretching from the East to West coasts and abroad.

Fred was born to Johann (John) and Erna Suess on September 25, 1940 in Munich, Germany. In order to provide Fred with the promise of a better life, his parents immigrated to the United States in 1950. Fred quickly assimilated into the culture, learning to speak English through television and school. He graduated from West Allis Central High School in 1959, moving on to earn a Master’s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. There, he was a proud member of the Triangle Fraternity and honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Phi Kappa Phi. He was in the top 10% of his graduating class in 1964.

In 1959, Fred met the love of his life at a YMCA dance, Gail Francene Hoeft. They were married on June 13, 1964. Together, they raised 6 children and were blessed to have 9 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 11 step-great grandchildren.

Fred began his engineering career at Caterpillar, Inc. and then Koehring Cranes, Inc. Recognizing that there weren't companies that provided metallurgical consultation services, Fred founded Technimet Corporation in 1978. The company soon became a success, and the specialized expert services Fred and his team offered from the New Berlin, Wisconsin location were highly sought-after around the country. Fred was passionate about his work and labored long hours, always giving credit to his dedicated staff and to God for the success of his business. Most importantly, Fred put his relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the center of every aspect of his life.

Fred was blessed to retire early, and he and Gail spent winters in Sun City West, Arizona before they eventually became permanent residents. During his retirement years in Arizona, Fred enjoyed golfing, creating heirlooms in the woodworking and jewelry clubs, swimming, playing chess, walking his best buddy “Sammy” (a mini Schnoodle), hosting gatherings with friends and family, and enjoying the abundant sunshine. Hands down, however, his favorite activity was being a prominent part of the Sun Cities Senior Softball League where “Freddy” played and managed teams year-round until May, 2023. He shared his financial wisdom by volunteering as Treasurer at Trinity Bible Church, serving a key role in the planning and development of their new church build. For 20 years, Fred also compassionately led weekly Bible studies through Follow-Up Ministries, sharing the Gospel to incarcerated men at Lower Buckeye Jail and occasionally at Kingman Prison.

Fred was a prankster and loved telling “yuck, yuck” jokes (as he coined them). He generally laughed the loudest at his jokes and was always looking for an opportunity to make others smile. Fred was introduced to clowning, and shortly thereafter, his alter ego, “Fowl Ball,” appeared at special softball events and social gatherings. Fred had a unique way of reaching people of all ages through his clowning - spreading laughter, joy and the important message of The Cross to the delight of everyone in the audience.

Fred loved his family and friends deeply. He was a true family man who provided support and love to each of his kids and grandkids. He considered close friends as family, and welcomed all people into his circle of influence. Fred was known for giving generously to several charities including Wisconsin Right to Life, Focus on the Family, Compassion International, The 700 Club, and Food for the Poor where many dwellings were built for families in impoverished nations. Along with many other worthy causes, these organizations continue to receive financial gifts through the Greater Milwaukee Foundation where Fred invested a portion of the eventual sale of Technimet Corporation.

Fred’s resounding message that he and his family wish to continue to proclaim is that God offers everyone the free gift of eternal life through his Son, Jesus Christ. He sincerely held on to his beliefs throughout his life, unashamedly and unapologetically sharing the Good News with others around him. Fred’s most cherished Bible verses include: John 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” and Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Fred's greatest hope would be that you have also put your faith and trust in Jesus, and will see him again someday in Heaven. He'll most likely be found in left field, reaching for the fly ball headed his way.

A special thank you to Jill Parsons and all the staff at Colonnade Memory Care for providing compassionate care and love for Fred during his 10 months there. To Hospice of the Valley: Michelle RN, Melinda and Cassandra, and Chaplain Bob for your loving, healing hearts and hands. To Kristine, Arnel, George, Armand, and Raven at Marley Park Senior Living: Thank you for being part of Fred’s entire family during the last 3 months and 7 days of his life. Words cannot express how grateful we are for your care and compassion for Fred/Dad like he was your own father. You are all so amazing! Finally, to Kari Wilkins of Gentle Hearts Living Solutions for walking alongside the Suess family (especially Gail and Barb) for over a year to guide their steps in placing Dad at the best facilities during his journey. You have all become part of the “Suess Clan” and your support and friendship have been immeasurable.

A private celebration of life will be held on a future date. In lieu of flowers/gifts, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association: alz.org