Fred S. Ladner

Col. Fred S. Ladner, Jr., USA, Ret., 85, joined his Lord and Savior on June 5, 2012 surrounded by his loving family and friends. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Mary, of 60 years, and his two children and their families; daughter Suzanne, her husband Jim Field, grandchildren Morgan, Macon, Madison and Marin; son DeWitt Ladner, his wife Sue, her children Sam and Drew. Born in Harrison County, MS, Fred enlisted in the Army at the age of 17. He earned his Bachelors degree from Mississippi State University, where his life with Mary started. He then returned to the Army, ultimately serving for over 40 years. He served in both WWII and the Korean War. Fred is a member at University Baptist Church and was a Deacon at Southside Baptist Church for 37 years. He was also very active in the business community of Baton Rouge, owning his insurance agency for over 30 years. He was Past President of Capital City Kiwanis, Charter Member and Past President of High Twelve International, Past Master of St. James Lodge No. 47, 32nd Degree Mason and member of Shriners. There was nothing more important to Fred than spending time with his family and friends. Whether it was taking the family on trips to the Coast, snow skiing or catching up with friends on the golf course, you would always find him smiling. He never met a stranger and was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend that will be missed by many. Visitation will be held at University Baptist Church on Saturday, June 9, starting at 9 a.m., to be followed by a memorial service to celebrate his life at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Services under the direction of Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Louisiana Baptist Children's Home (318) 343- 2244, or a charity of your choice.