It was when Fred was a boy that he discovered his interest in bugs, and his study of insects became a lifelong passion and career.
After graduating with his PhD in Entomology from the University of Georgia, Fred served in the United States Navy for over 30 years as a science officer and retired with a rank of Captain. He was the first Navy entomologist to serve in Vietnam as he was called upon to help reduce disease non-battle injuries including Malaria. Fred was stationed in many areas throughout his Navy career including California, Virginia, Florida, and Taiwan.
Fred was a dedicated husband of over 56 years to his wife Jacqueline. He and Jacquie adopted their three children Christopher, Lynn and Lenee.
It was after retiring from the US Navy, that Fred and Jacquie moved to Sarasota, FL where they have lived for the past 29 years.
Fred worked for Sarasota County where he was often referred to as "Dr. Fred". He was an integrated pest management coordinator promoting environmentally friendly practices, and was also active in teaching the public. Dr. Fred really enjoyed giving educational presentations and hosting guided insect identification walks along nature trails.
Fred picked up a passion for photography later in life and was active in a local Sarasota camera club. He took thousands of pictures of his grandchildren, as well as his backyard bugs.
Fred is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, his children, Christopher J. Santana, Lynn S. Guinagh (Brennan), Lenee S. Bowen (Justin) and grandchildren Riley Guinagh, Ethan Santana, Jolie Santana and Avery Guinagh. Also survived by his siblings, Patricia Dunn, William Santana and Sister Edith Celine Santana.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, June 14, 2021 at 9:30 am at Incarnation Catholic Church, 2929 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota, FL 34239. Burial will be private at Sarasota National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sierra Club.
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