Frederick VanMiddlesworth (Buffalo)'s Obituary
Frederick Andrew Van Middlesworth went home to be with his beloved wife, Carolyn on January 12, 2021, after her passing on November 12, 2020.
He was born on August 19, 1946 to Aranka “Goldie” and Frank B. Van Middlesworth in North Brunswick, NJ.
He had so many challenges in life but faced them all with strength and courage. In 1961 he became a second parent to his 5 younger siblings when their mother passed away from cancer. He made sure homework was done, kids were clean and fed, and everyone behaved. On June 25, 1964 he met with the love of his life, and the woman whom he would share his life journeys with. He and Carolyn were married on July 25, 1964. In 1965 he enlisted in the United States Marines along with his brother Frank, he did his training at Camp LeJeune NC, and Camp Pendleton, California. He was awarded the Purple Heart twice.
Fred loved music, his favorites being Johnny Cash, Johnny Maestro, Jay Black, and Hank Williams. When their first child was born in 1969, he was named Robert Franklin, after Carolyn’s brother and Fred’s dad. In 1971 when their daughter was born, and was named after his other favorite singer, Connie Francis.
Fred loved to dance, he was a master builder and master mechanic, all self-taught, along with his son Rob and grandson Steven, he left behind his knowledge with being a great mechanic. But most of all, Fred was a generous man he and Carolyn raised their children, then made the decision to raise their grandchildren. And always loved bragging about the accomplishments of his son and grandchildren. Fred moved his family from his lifelong home in NJ, to Missouri in 2004 to start a new life. He purchased a home and spent much time making it his and Carolyn’s dream home. He took pride in all he did and was meticulous.
When Carolyn took ill with cancer in 2016, he was her caregiver right until he too was diagnosed with cancer.
He is survived by his children, his son Robert Van Middlesworth and his wife, Jeanne of Whiting, NJ, daughter of Constance of Urbana, grandson Steven Van Middlesworth of Buffalo, MO, and granddaughter Samantha Umfleet and her husband Michael of Louisburg, MO. he is also survived by his brothers William Van Middlesworth and his wife Linda of Massena, NY. Frank Van Middlesworth and his wife Candy of Urbana, MO. Andrew of Henrico, nephews, nieces, and cousins and friends. He was predeceased in 1996 by his sister, Janet, his brother Robert in 2015 and his sister Lily in 2017.
Fred was a good man; he would give away anything he had to anyone that needed it or asked for it. He never forgot anyone’s birthday and had the most beautiful handwriting. Fred was lost when Carolyn passed. He kept asking “now what am I going to do?” So now he knows… he is dancing with his wife, spending time with his family, and knowing that there truly is a place called Heaven. Rest well, we all love you!
Funeral services for Fred will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 22, 2021 in the Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Chapel with burial to follow in the Maple Lawn Cemetery under the direction of the Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo, Missouri
Visitation will be from noon up until the time of the funeral Friday.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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