Fred Bruce Lehmkuhl's Obituary
On August 18, 2016 at 7:00 pm, Fred Bruce Lehmkuhl died peacefully in Oakland, CA surrounded by his wife, Minerva Lehmkuhl and daughters, Marcia and Adelia. Fred was born on February 1st, 1926 in Los Angeles, CA, to Henry and Bertha Lehmkuhl. His family, brother Henry Jr. and sisters, Margret Van Fossen and Laura Lehmkuhl preceded him in death. Fred is survived by his wife, Minerva, his son, Edwin Fortier, and two daughters, Marcia Galovich and Adelia Cott. He has seven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
In 1928, Fred and his family moved to Oregon and his father went into the business of growing walnuts. The family survived the Great Depression in Sheridan Oregon. Fred graduated from Sheridan High School and joined the Navy in 1944. He survived World War II and served until 1946 in the Philippines.
Following military service, Fred left Oregon and moved to Oakland, California where he lived until his death. In Oakland, he attended Bible College and attended church services at the City Club under the pastoral guidance of Dr. Patten. In each incarnation of the church, City Club, Christian Temple and Christian Cathedral, he was a loyal member for nearly 70 years.
Fred curiosity took in many directions, he was certificated in deep sea diving and had a pilots license. He worked in a wide variety of jobs from manufacturing automobile tires, driving trucks to working private security. Even when he retired, he continued to work in many volunteer jobs for his church and community. Fred Lehmkuhl was a Christian and devoted family man.
What’s your fondest memory of Fred?
What’s a lesson you learned from Fred?
Share a story where Fred's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Fred you’ll never forget.
How did Fred make you smile?