Frederick Burton Minahan

On March 30th, 2017, Fred B. Minahan left behind a legacy as a great family man, educator, and coach. As the youngest of six children, Fred was born on May 30, 1927, to Michael and Ada Minahan in Mt Vernon, Washington.

In 1945, Fred graduated from Mt Vernon High School as a three-sport athlete and ASB President. He enlisted in the Army and served in Europe at the end of WWII. In 1947, Fred married Francis Lee Ecklund and their son David was born in 1949. After Fred graduated from Western Washington State College with a degree in Physical Education and Mathematics they left Bellingham for Seattle. He secured a position in the Highline School District and taught, counseled and coached at Olympic Jr. High and Glacier High School. He developed a very successful basketball program and Coach Fred led his basketball teams to success against high-powered programs from Renton, Kent and Mercer Island. Fred retired from coaching and became a Vice Principal at Glacier High School and then Mt Rainier High School; but he never lost his dedication to the student athletes at each school. Upon retirement, Fred continued to enjoy sports especially the Huskies and Seahawks, traveling to Tucson and swinging the golf club. In 1997, Fran passed away after 49 years of marriage.

After Fran’s death, he reunited with childhood friend Shirley Dubenic and returned to Skagit Valley. Married just short of twenty years, Fred and Shirley enjoyed their time together and reunions of the Mount Vernon class of 1945.

Fred is survived by his wife Shirley Minahan, son David (Susan) Minahan, grandsons Gregory Minahan and Allan (Jennifer) Minahan, great grandchildren Owen and Emmarie Minahan. He also enjoyed members of Shirley’s family who spent many wonderful hours with Fred.

Services will be held Saturday, April 8th at 11:00 am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 215 N 15th St, Mt Vernon, WA. A reception will follow the services.

In lieu of flowers, send memorials to the charity of your choice or Immaculate Conception Regional School “Special Fund” at 1321 E Division St, Mt Vernon, WA 98274.

Funeral arrangements under the direction of Hawthorne Funeral Home.

Burial arrangements under the direction of Acacia Memorial Park & Funeral Home.