FREDERICK J. STEFFEN

I knew Fred as a fellow member of the Elgin Choral Union tenor section. He was my buddy and a role model for how to enjoy good choral music and live a great life. I am a much better person for having known Fred.

I was close to Fred for seven years while working for him. He knew how to have fun in all of his activities.

Fred's smile, hugs and voice always brightened Elgin Choral Union's (now Elgin Master Chorale) rehearsals and concerts. He was a big supporter of the choir, and just a few years ago, offered up his loft for a fundraiser along with a week at his vacation home in Colorado as an auction item. His generosity, love of animals, and dedication to the community will be remembered and missed by anyone who had the honor of knowing him. Heaven has gained a very special angel.

We have always said that we are but curators of Fred and Judy´s home in the country west of Elgin. I got to know Fred and Judy during the three months of visiting them prior to buying their home. I think I was more interested in learning about them than I was about their home. We delighted by Fred´s visits to the home over the last 20 years. When I would ask Fred about why he built something in some way he would chuckle and never quite remember why... on his last visit he sat on the back...

We remember Fred and Judy as the very best Parents and Mentors to all of the Church Members. Back in the 70's Fred & Judy were always at the Elgin Recycling Center supervising us as the Youth Group as we Volunteered our time with fresh Coffee and something from Herbs Bakery and of course Sandwiches for Lunch because we were there all day! When my Husband and were getting Married in June 1979, Fred & Judy were so happy for both of us because we were Best Friends first before engagement. They...

The light from his smile has dimmed...but, my memories of Fred will always shine on. We will "high five again in Heaven, one day!"