Fred Estep

Fred Estep, age 89, of Hamilton, died on Sunday, December 11, 2011 at Ft. Hamilton Hospital. He was born in Beattyville, Kentucky, on May 19, 1922, the son of Charles William and Nettie (Pritchard) Estep. Fred was a well-respected builder, developer, real estate broker and owner of Estep Management. He was prolific at his work and constructed the subdivisions of Brookwood, Twinbrook and Fairway Hills and built many homes throughout Butler County and Midland, Texas. Fred constructed commercial buildings, fraternity houses, and apartment buildings in Hamilton and Oxford. He was past president of the Home Builders Association. Fred served in the US Army Air Forces during World War II in 7 major battles and campaigns in Europe. He earned 12 medals including 7 Bronze Stars. Fred is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Ruth; daughters Karen (George) Redmon, Betty Estep and Vicky Imperial; son Fred (Crissi) Estep; grandchildren Nick (Bonnie) Imperial, Alex Imperial, Gretchen, Megan, Hannah, Frederick and Benjamin Estep; step-grandchildren Amy, Corrie and Aaron Frye, Alexis, Zachary and Raegan Grooms; two great-grandchildren Ryan Imperial and Tristyn Bordicks. He is also survived by his first wife Orpha Estep; brothers Charles (Helen) Estep and Kenneth Wayne (Linda) Estep; sister Millie White (Roy); best friend like a brother, Harlan Michael; and many nieces, nephews, friends and business acquaintances. Fred was preceded in death by his parents; brother Shelby Estep; sisters Cleida (Sam) Rogers, Lillian Estep, Mary (Joe) Rogers and Margie (Cyril) Justinak; and step-daughter Diana Frye. Fred was a loving and caring father, grandfather, brother and uncle and he will be missed by all who knew and loved him. His family will miss his wonderful smile and laughter, the numerous stories that he loved to tell, and the interest and love that he showed to all. Funeral Services will be held at 1pm on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at the Webb Noonan Kidd Funeral Home, Ross Avenue at South “D” Street, Hamilton. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Burial Park. Visitation will be prior to the service from 11am-1pm at the funeral home.