Frederick Richard Schott

Frederick R. (Fred) Schott died on February 24 at his Sarasota home after a long illness. Fred grew up in Bradenton and Bethel, NC. At the age of 14 his life was changed forever when an automobile accident left him paralyzed from the chest down.

Regardless of his injury, Fred’s retained zest for life and his spirit of kindness and compassion for all. As a teenager, he worked as a boat builder and managed bands, including that of Country/Western singer Billy Rice. He also worked in sales with his brothers in a mobile home business, which was started by his father.

At 21, he drove cross-country to visit his sister Barbara in San Francisco. During the trip, he developed a life-long passion for national parks and Native American culture. After his arrival in California, he decided he wanted to live there. He was hired by Roberts Homes, a mobile and modular manufacturer. He was shortly promoted to vice-president in charge of the company’s manufacturing plant. He was next employed by Leaseco Living Concepts as sales manager, where he also developed the first modular banks and log cabins. In his off time, he enjoyed participating in street and track racing in his Grand National car and racing his jet boat.

Fred moved to Sarasota in 1998 to spend more time with his family. An old friend from Bradenton invited him to join him in opening a sports bar, Scalawags. After five years his partner bought him out, so Fred could retire and pursue his interest in designing boat accessories that allowed paralyzed people to enjoy boating. He also volunteered for many local organizations, including the Southwest Chapter of the Red Cross, where he worked in public relations and was the representative to the Sarasota Emergency Management. He co-founded Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Able Challenges program, whose purpose was to convince physically challenged people that they can participate in sports activities.

Fred continued to purse his interest in street and track racing and boating. He was a member of the Sarasota Biking club, participated in local bike races and designed a car carrier to transport his Freedom Rider bike.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Navy Lt. Lester G. Schott and Gertrude D. (Eagar) Schott. Survivors include sisters Barbara Schott and Geraldine Carnahan (Robert) and brothers Lester Schott, Jr., and Richard Schott as well 15 nieces and nephews and 14 grand nieces and nephews. Several friends from across the U.S. flew in to honor him at a private celebration of his life. He will be remembered for his smile and caring for all people.

I lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Paralyzed Veteran of Americans.

We will miss you Fred.