Frederick Coleman's Obituary
Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, we gather here today to remember and celebrate the
extraordinary life of Dr. Fred Coleman.
Fred’s journey began on December 22, 1948, in San Rafael, California. Born to parents Ferdelia
Louise Stoker and Lee Roscoe Coleman.
Fred’s early years were shaped by the tight-knit family bonds that laid the foundation for a life of
dedication, passion, and profound connections with those he loved. Growing up alongside his
older brother Ronald Dean Coleman, the Coleman family resided in Marin City until Fred was
seven years old. While in Marin City, he attended Richardson Bay Elementary School. Their
subsequent move to San Francisco marked the beginning of Fred's educational journey,
attending elementary school in the city and progressing through Horace Mann Junior High.
Even in those early years, Fred displayed a vibrant spirit, joking with his classmates about the
school’s nickname, “Horseman.”
Fred's academic pursuits later took him to Lowell High School, where he truly found his stride. A
standout on the varsity football team, Fred's passion for the sport was evident, and he took
immense pride in being a star fullback for Lowell throughout his high school years. His
achievements and popularity at Lowell earned him a cherished place as a member of the
Knights of the Grid Iron group, a source of immense pride for Fred. He was even voted the class
flirt by his classmates.
After graduating from Lowell High School, Fred continued his academic journey, attending the
University of California, Berkeley on an academic scholarship. He was the first to graduate with
a Bachelor's degree in African American Studies. While attending Cal, he met a dentist that
really inspired him to pursue Dentistry as a career. He then earned a place at Harvard Dental
School. It was during this time that he met Alana Ross. Together, they welcomed their son, Ian
Malik Coleman.
Fred's professional journey in dentistry began with resilience, facing racial discrimination during
his seven challenging years in Boston. Despite the difficulties, he completed his residency at
Boston Children’s Hospital and developed a deep fondness for the staff and his colleagues.
Returning to California marked a transformative period for Fred. His career flourished, starting at
the West Oakland Health Center, where he served as the Pediatric Dentist for disadvantaged
children. He continued his work at Children’s Hospital Oakland, where he was the Co-Director of
their dental clinic and the Director of their Affirmative Action Employment programs. In both
roles, he took great pride in making a significant impact on the lives of others and in the field of
pediatric dentistry.
Fred took a step further in his commitment to children’s dental health by establishing his private
practice in 1982. Shortly after, Fred’s personal life took a new turn, leading to the end of his
marriage to Alana.
He served the children of Oakland, leaving an enduring legacy of care and compassion. Fred
gave so much of himself to his patients. He always encouraged his patients to do and be the
best that they could be. He expected his patients to achieve grades no lower than B’s. His love
for children was evident in leadership roles he took in organizations such as Big Brother’s/ Big
Sister’s and he attended career programs at local colleges and universities.
In time, Fred met Naima, a great friend who became the love of his life. He also gained the role
of step-father to Naima’s two children, Toussaint and Amina. Their journey together became a
rich tapestry, woven with shared adventures and cultural experiences. Fred and Naima really
enjoyed living to the fullest by going to great restaurants traveling locally and abroad. Fred also
loved music from soul to rock to classical. One of his favorite music groups was Tower of Power.
Additionally, he was a sports and arts enthusiast— supporting his local professional sports
teams with season tickets to the 49er’s, Raiders, Oakland Athletics, Golden State Warriors and
also the SF Opera and Symphony. Fred and Naima shared the passion for entertainment and
enjoyed so many beautiful experiences together.
In his nonexistent free time, he loved his professional and community leadership roles. He was
a past President of the Alameda County Dental Society, a Delegate for the California Dental
Association, and a Treasurer and Trustee of National Dental Association.
Fred continued to practice until 2010 despite facing medical challenges. In retirement, Fred
continued to embrace life. He loved taking local trips to Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay and the
Napa/Sonoma Wine Country. Supported by Naima’s unconditional presence, they traveled to
Palm Springs, Massachusetts, Arizona, Mexico, France, and Italy, in which he enjoyed his
favorite cuisine, Italian Food. Their travels created so many cherished memories. Fred and
Naima reveled in a life filled with joy and love.
In the realm of family, Fred's pride knew no bounds. His joy in becoming a father to Ian Malik
Coleman was immeasurable, marking the beginning of a legacy that extended to embrace
stepchildren and, most recently, grandchildren.
Fred's commitment to family was a beacon in his life, guiding him through the highs and lows
with unwavering love.
From birthdays to dressing up for Halloween, Face-Timing, and laughter-filled visits, Fred's
connection with his four grandchildren Mecca, Ace, Luna and Mars illuminated his life, leaving a
legacy of warmth and familial devotion.
Today let us celebrate a remarkable life, well-lived. And one which enriched the lives of others
through kindness, dedication, and love. Fred's legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were
fortunate enough to know him.
Fred is preceded in death by his mother Ferdelia, father Roscoe and brother Ronald. Fred is
survived by his wife Naima, sons Ian and Toussaint, daughter Amina, son-in-law Jesse,
grandchildren Mecca, Ace, Luna, Mars and River, Nieces Michon and Ciara, nephew-in-law
James, great nephew Morgan and great niece Savannah and an abundant list of other family
and close friends.
We would love to leave you with a couple of Fred’s all time favorite quotes
“That’s life in the big city!” & “Up your nose with a rubber hose!”
What’s your fondest memory of Frederick?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frederick?
Share a story where Frederick's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frederick you’ll never forget.
How did Frederick make you smile?