Fred Eklund

Home with Jesus

We are all saddened by the passing of Fred Eklund of Spring Valley on September 4, 2013. He was born in Los Angeles on January 20, 1921. He had one older brother, Victor Eklund whom he dearly loved.

Fred had many odd jobs as a young boy. At 13 he was sent to Catalina Island to work in his uncle's produce shop. He also worked along side his father as a painter during the depression.

As a young boy Fred dreamed of flying. He would go to a nearby airfield and watch planes take off and land. He dreamed of flying one day. He later became a civilian pilot.

On July 1, 1942 Fred enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served until 1945.

Fred completed advanced flight training in B-25s at La Junta, Colorado, and then completed advanced flight for B-17s at St. Petersburg, Florida. He was assigned as a B-17 pilot, 385th Bomber Group, at Great Ashfield, England. He flew thirty-five heavy bombardment missions over enemy territory in occupied Europe.

Lieutenant Eklund was presented the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Distinguished Fly Cross with an oak leaf cluster, the Presidential Unit Citation, and the European Theater Action Medal for his thirty-five missions.

Fred wanted to continue his service after his time in Europe, so he went on to train pilots in Hobbs, NM.

Prior to the war, Fred completed two years of college at USC. In 1945, Fred re enrolled at USC and completed his degree in education.

Fred and Helen Virginia were married in August 1946. They raised three girls and one boy. They had memorable times as a family going to the beach and camping. Fred valued education and supported a college degree for all four children.

Fred began teaching in the Los Angeles district in 1947. After earning his Master's degree he was assigned to Pupil Services and Attendance and was later promoted to supervisor. He retired in 1983.

Fred loved to work on car and boat engines in his garage. He began wood working and became a real craftsman. Fishing with Ginnie and attending USC football games were his hobbies. He loved to camp and visit his kids and grandchildren. He always loved children.

Throughout his life, Jesus was his passion, joy and Lord.