Fredric Tavy Ofsowitz

Fredric Ofsowitz Obituary

Fredric Tavy Ofsowitz died on November 7, 2019 in Houston, Texas at the age of 74.

Fredric Tavy Ofsowitz was born in Passaic, NJ to Annette and Michael Ofsowitz. He was the middle of five children. He graduated from Rutgers University - Newark and joined the Air Force as a pilot, rising to the level of Captain. He flew cargo planes in Vietnam, arriving at the start of the Tet Offensive in January 1968. He was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross and was proud of his service.

He met Joanne Agnes Jackson in New Orleans, LA and married on December 29, 1974. They made their home across Texas and Louisiana, settling in Amarillo in 1993. He was a devoted husband whose love for her never lessened after her death in 1996.

He worked for the FAA for over 25 years. After he retired, he volunteered with the Amarillo Department of Veterans Affairs and for the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), driving over 175,000 miles to help other veterans receive medical care.

A lifelong Yankees fan, his favorite player was Billy Martin. He had an amazing knowledge of classic cars from his youth and he followed car racing from NASCAR to F1. He loved history, and he loved to read. In the early 1990's he volunteered reading books on WRBH, radio for the blind and print impaired.

His frequent cross-country trips to visit family and friends were moments that everyone looked forward to. He was always quick to joke and just as quick with the crossword. He ran his first marathon when he was 60 and another after that.

He was the greatest of fathers and grandfathers and leaves a hole that can never be filled. He will be remembered by all for his heart and his humor and by those closest to him for his wontons (the benefit of Chinese cooking lessons he received as a birthday gift decades ago).

He is survived by his two daughters, Jennifer Ofsowitz and Megan Kakani, and their families, including four grandchildren who were his pride and joy. He is also survived by three siblings and extended family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to High Plains Public Radio or United Way. A private memorial service will be held in New Orleans, a city that was special to him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Amarillo Globe-News from Nov. 17 to Nov. 18, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Fredric Ofsowitz

9 Entries

Mike Feltman

February 19, 2024

I was a class mate of Fred at Clifton high school
In thinking about people I grew up with ,liked and were like able I had not heard from or about for many years I googled his name

I am pleased that he lived such a rich active and interesting life and hope that you his children and grandchildren carry warm memories as I do

Mike feltman

Linda Carson Howard

December 28, 2021

Please accept this expression of sympathy. I was a classmate of Fred's at Rutgers-Newark ~ he was one year ahead of me. We were in several Poli-Sci classes together & often rode the same bus to Newark. As I recall, he was Air Force ROTC ~ came to class in uniform. I lost track of him after he graduated & often wondered what his life was like after that. I'm impressed that he achieved so much. Best wishes & blessings to his family.

Paul Winski

December 13, 2019

Hello Ofsowitz family. I was a friend and co-worker of Fred's
at Amarillo Tower for several years. He was an honest man, a dedicated employee, and a good friend. We lost contact after I left Amarillo Tower in 1997. I just did a web search for Fred as I was thinking of him, and was saddened to see his obituary. Like all of you, I miss Fred, but find comfort in knowing that he is now with his wife and other family members who preceded him in death.

Liz Null

November 24, 2019

Fred was a good friend in high school and college, and we reconnected about 15 years ago. His family was everything to him. He carried the loss of his beloved wife with him always but found joy and satisfaction in his daughters, in whom he saw Joanne. And he was the happiest and proudest grandpa ever. Thank you, Jennifer and Megan, for taking care of your dad.

Christy Wootan

November 18, 2019

I knew he was a forever devoted husband and superhero dad to his two girls, but I am now moved by the distinguished life he lived, accomplishments he made, after reading the obituary. No wonder his daughters are such a strong testament to his legacy. And I know that he would say his biggest accomplishments were his family, his girls, and grandkids. I am so sorry for the huge void he has left. Jennifer, you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

November 18, 2019

Our condolences to Freddie's children, grandchildren and siblings. He will be remembered as a selfless, kind man with a quick wit. May he RIP. The Cimmet Family, Belleville, NJ

Barbara Moore

November 17, 2019

I so enjoyed working with Fred at the VA in Amarillo. He was a devoted volunteer drive who did a fabulous job rain or shine , early morning hours air late nights, getting Veterans to and from their health appointments. He was an advocate for Veterans and a reliable , capable volunteer that everyone wanted in their department. I know he is with Joann now in the arms of Jesus. His grandchildren have a wonderful example of dedication, patriotism and model American hero. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Erica Lombardi

November 17, 2019

Sending my deepest sympathies for a terrible loss. May he rest in peace.

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