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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Frederick Tonnies Obituary
Frederick Edward Tonnies, age 82, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, in his home.
Fred was a devoted family man and a passionate Mizzou sports fan who found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends. He had a remarkable ability to make others laugh, and everyone always felt welcome in his home and heart.
Fred is survived by his wife, Kathleen (Jaworowski) Tonnies; his son, Joseph Tonnies; and his daughter, Sarah (William “Trey”) Pope. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dr. Kyle Tonnies, Ava Tonnies, William “Liam” Pope IV, and Olivia Pope. He will be dearly missed by his siblings and in-laws Judy (Tonnies) and Bill Schulz, Mary and Rick Sato, Jim Gibilterra Sr., and Barbara Jaworowski, as well as by many beloved nieces and nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Emil Tonnies and Edna Marie (Vollmer) Tonnies; his sister, Audrey (Tonnies) Manning; brother-in-law, Patrick Manning; and his nephew, Dennis O’Donnell.
A Memorial Gathering Will Be Held On:
Saturday, September 13th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home
www.schrader.com
Schrader Funeral Home
14960 Manchester Rd, Ballwin, MO 63011
A celebration of Fred’s life will be held following the service from 4pm-8pm at Bellerive Country Club. The family welcomes relatives, friends, and all whose lives Fred touched to join in remembrance.
Bellerive Country Club
Hosted at The Field House
12925 Ladue Road
St. Louis, MO 63141
Please share memories of Fred and condolences with the family in the online guestbook at www.schrader.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s memory to the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy (formerly the St. Louis College of Pharmacy) at uhsp.edu/givenow
Fred’s Professional Career:
Fred was born on June 22, 1943, in St. Louis at Christian Hospital. He met the love of his life, Kathleen Ann (Jaworowski) Tonnies, while working at Christian Hospital as a pharmacy intern and she as a nurse intern. They married on August 25, 1967, and shared more than 57 years together.
Fred earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 1968, completed an Executive Management Fellowship for Directors of Pharmacy at the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania, in 1989, and received a Master of Science in Pharmacy Administration from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 1990.
He began his career as a student pharmacist intern at Gasen Pharmacy and Christian Hospital, then worked as a staff pharmacist at Christian Hospital Northwest. In 1970, Fred and Kathleen moved to Hannibal, Missouri, where he became Director of Pharmacy Services at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. There, he designed a new pharmacy, introduced modern practices, and also provided part-time services to Levering Hospital and Beth Haven Extended Care Facility.
During his time in Hannibal, Fred’s public service included:
· Board member and co-author of a grant establishing the Mark Twain Mental Health Association Board member of the Hannibal Council on Alcohol and Drugs
· Board member of the Marion County Ambulance District
In 1977, Fred was appointed Manager of Pharmacy Services at the University of Missouri-Columbia Hospital and Clinics, where he served for 26 years. He expanded facilities, staffing, and services, introducing modern inpatient and outpatient distribution, clinical pharmacy programs, and training partnerships with the UMKC School of Pharmacy.
Fred also took on wider administrative leadership. When University Hospital merged with Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, he served as Acting Assistant Director of Professional Services, managing Pharmacy, Pathology, Radiology, Emergency, and Transplant Services, while also budgeting and staffing for a new Endoscopy Center. Later, when Columbia Regional Hospital merged into the system, he assumed responsibility for its pharmacy operations as well, uniting services under a single manager.
Between 1983-1986, Fred worked as a consultant pharmacist to Fulton State Hospital, Nevada State Hospital, and Woodhaven Learning Center, where he evaluated and improved pharmacy services.
After retiring from the University in 2003, Fred continued his work as:
· Director of Pharmacy at Samaritan Hospital (Macon, MO) for one year
· Director of Pharmacy at Fulton State Hospital for six years
· Consultant pharmacist for Missouri Care and the Surgery Center of Columbia
From 2011 to 2023, Fred was Pharmacy Director for the Missouri Department of Mental Health, where he reviewed and developed statewide medication policies, implemented new pharmacy software across seven hospitals, and chaired the committee reviewing opioid prescribing practices.
Fred also served as a consultant pharmacist to the Missouri Mutual Employers Insurance Company (4 years), Novation Supply Company (6 years, including chair), and the University Hospital Consortium (12 years). He taught as adjunct faculty at the UMKC School of Pharmacy and at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.
His professional leadership included decades of service to pharmacy organizations:
· Member of the American Society of Hospital Pharmacists (ASHP), including the Council on Organizational Affairs
· Founding member of the Missouri Society of Hospital Pharmacists (MSHP) in 1970, serving on numerous committees, the board, and as president for two terms
· Appointed by Governor John Ashcroft to the Missouri Board of Pharmacy (1992-1998), serving as president for one year
·
Fred’s accomplishments were recognized with numerous awards, including:
· St. Louis Society of Hospital Pharmacists Student Award (1968)
· MSHP Hospital Pharmacist of the Year (1978)
· University of Missouri-Columbia Hospital - Management Leadership Award (1984)
· MSHP Thomas J. Garrison Achievement Award (1991)
· Fellow of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (1993)
· Outstanding Alumni Award, St. Louis College of Pharmacy (1994)
· Missouri Pharmacy Association Bowl of Hygeia Award (1996)
Community Service & Personal Interests:
Fred’s impact extended well beyond pharmacy. In Columbia, he was the Director of the Men’s and Women’s Adult Soccer League for 14 years and served as Soccer Commissioner for the Show-Me State Games for 13 years. His dedication to the sport was recognized with his induction into the SMSG Hall of Fame.
After retiring from pharmacy, Fred began a new path as President of the St. Louis Chapter of Better Investing, overseeing a territory across Missouri and Illinois. This chapter educated both individuals and clubs in stock investing, and Fred embraced the role with the same dedication he brought to pharmacy.
Fred lived his life to the fullest, guided by faith, family, service, and humor. He gave endlessly of his time and talents, touched countless lives, and left a legacy of kindness, leadership, and love. He often said he had no regrets, and he leaves behind cherished memories and an example of a life well lived.
Memories and Condolences
for Frederick Tonnies
23 Entries
Dr Alfonso Tobia
November 23, 2025
Fred was an accomplished professional and an outstanding member of the pharmaceutical community. He took on many responsibilities including the Delta Sigma Theta Scholarship Fund for many years. He was a good man and helped so many over the years. Truly a professional and scholar. Rest in peace DST Brother.
Sal and Deb Tesoro
September 14, 2025
We have been blessed to know Fred for 40 years. He was instrumental in our relocation to Columbia. Sal worked for him at University of Missouri Healthcare and he gave both of us encouragement, guidance and opportunities throughout our careers. Fred´s dedication to his family and his profession and the joy this brought was apparent to all who knew him! The leadership and professionalism he demonstrated for all provided a level of mentorship to many, directly or indirectly. He was "all in" when it came to advocating and supporting the pharmacy profession and this impact will be realized far into the future. A life well led in so many ways!! Prayers for comfort and peace Kathleen, for you and your family!
Kathleen Reinhardt
September 12, 2025
Fred was intelligent, kind and compassionate. He had this crazy sense of humor. Wish we could have spent more tiCousin Kathy Reinhardtme together. You've earned your way to heaven. Wishing you peace and joy in your place in heaven.
Kathy, we are praying for you and your family as you navigate through this sad time.
Neil Schmidt
September 12, 2025
Fred was my Mentor. There was a slogan a while back that said I want to be like Mike (Michael Jordan). I wanted to be like Fred. He helped me in so many ways in Hospital Pharmacy. Even letting me stay at his house for a couple of weeks when I became the System Pharmacy Manager at Mizzou. Fred would always check in to see how I was doing and was always willing to provide support. Watch out God, Fred may give you some advice on how to better run Heaven! Eternal Rest grant unto Fred oh Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.
My sincere condolences to Kathleen and family.
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Deborah Self
September 10, 2025
Kathleen, you and your family are in my heart at this difficult time. May your memories bring you comfort. ❤
John & Diane Nikonowicz
September 10, 2025
Fred and I worked together as students. Being an upperclassman he taught me a lot about being a pharmacist. He always has a place in my memory.
Russ Melchert
September 9, 2025
In addition to serving so many over his career and all the great accomplishments he had, Fred was a true friend and advocate for pharmacy education in Missouri, serving his great alma mater, the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, and also us here at the UMKC School of Pharmacy. We at UMKC will miss him greatly, for sure, but his legacy will live on in our school forever. Thank you Fred, and many thanks to all of his family for assisting him and granting him the invaluable time he used to serve his patients, our profession and our schools.
Tom Hall
September 8, 2025
Fred was a consummate professional and a truly kind and considerate person. I became acquainted with Fred in the early 1990s, soon after I moved to Missouri as a young hospital pharmacist. He was a role model and an inspiration to me and numerous other pharmacists and pharmacy leaders in Missouri and beyond. Deepest condolences to Fred's family. He will be missed.
Mike and Rockie Alden
September 8, 2025
We were so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. He was a terrific person and a great fan of the Missouri Tigers. His passion for Mizzou was evident when he was around all of the sporting events and activities. We hope that the many fond memories that were made throughout a lifetime are of comfort to family and friends.
Tom Mcsherry
September 7, 2025
With deepest sympathy I extend this note. As family of Fred , please know that Fred gave me a chance as a new, green and vulnerable pharmacist. He again gave me a chance to come back after I had a severe depressive episode and he again gave me a chance when Student Health was merged with the hospital. I am grateful for the opportunities Fred gave me because he mentored how I contributed to the profession. Hopefully I lived up to his standards.
September 6, 2025
I worked with Fred at University of Missouri Health Care for years. His contributions and dedication to the profession of Pharmacy are positive and many. Rest in Peace, Fred. Heartfelt condolences are sent to family and the many friends you impacted. Cathy and Rex Taggart
Judi Schoonover
September 5, 2025
So so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. Omgosh he was just a delightful man! Fondly remember his loving smile when he visited Kyle at Grant! He gave my son jacob his first taste of the pharmacy with zest! My condolences to you all...he was a gem!♡
Karla McNew
September 4, 2025
Kathleen- I was saddened to learn of the passing of your dear husband. I cherish many good memories of the time we worked together and enjoyed hearing stories about your family. May you all find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Larry and Kathy Windmoeller
September 3, 2025
I was so fortunate to work alongside Fred for over twenty years in the University Pharmacy Department, where his leadership, kindness and sense of humor made everyday meaningful. He was not only a wonderful director and colleague, but also a dear friend.
Some of my fondest memories are of our time as
“Mizzou Knuckleheads,” traveling to away football games with him and Kathleen. Cheering on our Tigers together.
Those moments of laughter and camaraderie will stay with me always.
Fred will be deeply missed, by so many, but the joy, wisdom, and friendship he shared will never be forgotten.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Kathleen, Joe, and Sarah and to all of his family.
Pete & Sharon Spoo
August 30, 2025
I didn't know Fred very long. We were in the same HOA in FL. He was a kind, considerate person & always had something nice to
say! We missed him when he left!
Joel and Darlene Urban
August 30, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family, Kathleen. We enjoy many memories of you two here in Sebring. Fred was always thoughtful, caring and fun to be around. He will be missed and never forgotten. Love Joel and Darlene
Mark Lampe
August 29, 2025
A leader, a mentor, a teacher and a friend. You will be missed.
Joan Matyshak
August 28, 2025
Fred never mentioned his accomplishments and he was generous with his time and talents when helping others. He was masterful at gentle prodding to assist you in reaching your goals. He had a lovely sense of humor and will be missed by those of us who knew him from Model Investment Club. His role was very important as he was a natural educator and leader. Fred will be missed.
Zach Holden
August 28, 2025
Fred was one of the best men I know. I really looked up to him and he gave me great advice in my teens and twenties. He was also a lot of fun to be with. A great person and will be missed so much by so many.
Bert McClary
August 27, 2025
We caught Fred literally as he was leaving Hannibal in 1977 and diverted him to Columbia. He was the best fit for the University Hospital among those nationally recruited candidates. Hospital pharmacy practice had changed significantly during the previous decade and Fred continued to be a progressive pharmacy manager for the rest of his career.
Fred didn’t make it to the first Missouri Society of Hospital Pharmacists Annual Meeting in May 1970 due to a personal conflict, but he had been present at the organizational meeting in February, the first “Statewide Meeting of Missouri Hospital Pharmacists” in Columbia, MO. And he was present and participating in almost every significant MSHP event for the next thirty years. No member was more active and dedicated to the success of the organization than Fred.
I was honored to work with Fred as an employee for ten years and to work with him as a professional colleague and friend for over thirty more years. Godspeed, Fred. We still have that pump in our kitchen.
Mark Robertson
August 27, 2025
Fred's work with our community of investors was considerable and he positively influenced and encouraged the experience of many friends across a wide geographic berth. His efforts and support were commendable ... and he was greatly inspirational for many of us. Our shared experiences were too brief but I assume he's not done, yet. Our deepest condolences to Kathleen and Fred's extended family. Cherish the memories. Thanks, Fred -- it's been an honor.
Rick Gaines
August 27, 2025
Fred was a wonderful friend and Neighbor when we lived across the street from one another in Columbia Missouri. We had great times together!
KIMBERLEY KEDING
August 27, 2025
We had the honor of becoming wonderful friends with Fred and Kathleen when they became our neighbors in Sebring Florida. I will always remember our wonderful conversations. His love for our dog Wilma was unmatched. She loved "visiting " Fred and Kathleen's house, their door was always open for her and they always had special treats for her.
We will truly miss you Fred. RIP our wonderful friend.
Love,
Dave, Kim and Wilma Partin
Showing 1 - 23 of 23 results
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Memorial Events
for Frederick Tonnies
Sep
13
Memorial Gathering
11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory
14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Sep
13
Celebration of Life
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Bellerive Country Club
12925 Ladue Road, St. Louis, MO 63141
Funeral services provided by:
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011