Fred Henry Felchlin Jr.

Fred was born on November 25, 1948, to a German World War II bride and a Staff Sergeant in the US Army Air Corps. Fred’s parents settled in San Diego in 1953, and he had been a resident ever since. Fred graduated from James Madison High School in 1966 with aspirations of joining the US Air Force, only to be halted by asthma. In 1967, he joined Convair to begin his lifelong career as an Aerospace Inspector. On his journey, he inspected space shuttles - which further developed his passion for the space system. He also inspected cruise missiles as well as many different types of commercial aircraft.

In 1974, Fred married Jeanne Campagna, and welcomed their only child, Andrea, in 1975. Fred was a provider, a teacher, and raised a well-balanced daughter. He gave her a lot of love and taught her a lot, including the ability to identify aircraft, how to work on cars, the drive to become an athlete, and to know the importance of self-care. His dearest title came when he became “Grandpa” in 1997 to his grandson Austin and eventually, his granddaughter Carly in 2000. He was instrumental in introducing them to computers and electronics, and he appreciated their fierce leadership and quick wit. As his grandchildren became adults, they always had a special and unique relationship with their Grandpa, sharing interests in outer space, politics, geography, Stephen King, and the medical field.

Fred suffered a life-changing stroke in 2010, but was fortunate to still have his amazing mental capacity. He loved talking about space, TV shows, catching up with family, and current events. Fred always had a huge passion for animals, especially dogs and cats, and instilled that love in his daughter and grandchildren. He was always passionate about gemstones, classic TV shows, and good food - but most of all, he loved his family. He looked forward to his weekly visits from his brother Rick as well as updates from his sister Sue. Fred will be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit, passion, and for wearing his heart on his sleeve.

He is preceded in death by his father, Fred Henry Felchlin Sr.; and his mother, Charlotte Maria Felchlin.

Survived by his daughter, Andrea (Vincent) Mendoza; grandchildren, Austin Mendoza and Carly Mendoza; sister, Susan (Bob) Scherer; and brother, Richard (Lori) Felchlin.

Private services will be held by family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation or the San Diego Humane Society.