Frederick Rohr Praetorius Jr.

Frederick Rohr Praetorius Jr., 83, of Ft. Worth, passed away peacefully Friday, October 6, 2023. Known to his friends as “Big Fred”, he was a talented athlete in both baseball & football. Fred graduated from Paschal High School, class of ’58. He was an All-State football player, All Star baseball catcher and was awarded scholarships to both Texas A & M, and The University of Houston.

Fred was a successful businessman with thriving ventures in Houston & Cleburne, TX, before moving to Las Vegas, NV where he was a food broker for over 30 years. Fred was always on top of his game no matter what he was selling.

After retiring comfortably in Ft. Worth, he was able to connect with many of his lifelong friends. He was the founding member of the ROMEO Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out) of Ft Worth, where many of his friends met to celebrate life and fond memories.

When his children were young, Fred was referred to as the hero of the neighborhood by the local kids, where he was always up for a friendly game of baseball or teaching various football maneuvers. Fred was known and loved for his robust sense of humor and good spirited personality. There was always a good time with Freddie in the room.

Fred is survived by his three children, Michael Praetorius of Houston, TX; Lisa Praetorius Doran of Kansas City, MO; and Lana Praetorius Slyfield of Lafayette, LA; his children’s mother, Lavon McKnight, also of Houston, TX; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Lou Praetorius Phillips; nephew, Nick Phillips; and niece, Betsy Praetorius Hancock.

Fred was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Paul Praetorius; parents,Frederick R Praetorius Sr and Johnnie Lucille Praetorius.

Fred’s “Light” will be missed by many, but his spirit, along with his

SILLY made-up songs, will live on!

Private family memorial to be held at later date.