Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Frederick McCarren Obituary
Frederick West McCarren, 55, of Pittsburgh, formerly of Butler, died at 9 a.m. Sunday at the Butler Memorial Hospital.
Born in Butler, April 12, 1951, he was a son of the Charles R. McCarren Jr., and the late Millicent West McCarren.
A 1969 graduate of Butler High School, he had attended the University of Cincinnati and Point Park College and was a graduate of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey's Clown College in Sarasota, Fla.
An accomplished actor, he was a card-carrying member of the Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA, had appeared in numerous movies, both cinema and made for TV, including the National Lampoon's Class Reunion, Xanadu, The Good-bye Girl and The Boogens. He also had the star lead in an ABC Monday Night Movie of the Week, "How to Pick Up Girls." He had played a feature character on many TV series, such as The Golden Girls, Hill Street Blues, Remmington Steele and the Dukes of Hazard. Also he had been part of several stage play casts.
Fred was known for the more than 200 national radio and TV commercials, many that are currently running.
Very creative, he was a talented cartoonist, loved drawing and writing and enjoyed reading.
Surviving are his wife, Lisa Hogan McCarren, whom he married Dec. 30, 1982; four sons, Tobin P., Michael S. and William Frederick McCarren, all of Butler, and Charles H. McCarren with the Air Force at Langley Air Force Base, Va.; two daughters, Millicent C. and Elizabeth A. McCarren, both of Butler; his father, Charles R. McCarren Jr., and his wife, Marilyn, of Butler; two brothers, Charles R. McCarren III and his wife, Jeanne, of Los Angeles Calif., and Michael P. McCarren and his wife, Linda, of Butler; and three sisters, Mrs. David (Patricia) Stein of Baltimore,Md., Mrs. Craig (Mary) Turnbell of Bowling Green, Ohio, and Mrs. Charles (Millicent) Stawinsky of Butler. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by a brother, David Edward McCarren.
McCARREN - Friends of Frederick West McCarren, who died Sunday, July 2, 2006, will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME, 201 E. Cunningham St. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 N. McKean St. Burial will be at the Calvary Cemetery.
Information also is available at www.geibelfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Frederick McCarren
Pati (sheehan)Engle
August 10, 2006
to the family I am so sorry a good person has gone home just think you'll soon join him and all wil be right againI remember you knoe the name best looking the scholar he was the class clown I thought of it when I saw he graduated from clown school I thougt my favorite show he was in would be senior year PJ Game playing opposite of my twin sister but it wasn't little me was the best I was just a dancer but he made me want to be good because he was GREAT!
Michele (Mike)Sheehan Collins
July 31, 2006
Fred was my leading man in the Masquers production of Pajama Game(1969). I have followed his career over the years and when I saw him on TV or in commercials, it always made me smile. His many successes were well deserved. I have thought of him often over the years and he will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to all the McCarren family and he and you will be in my prayers.
Kathy Niccoli (Gerstner)
July 28, 2006
Krissy, my twin said it all. I couldn't keep my eyes off him.Yes even in 1st. grade he was a looker. He had more friends, I was an admirer from afar, I didn't feel I was in the right "click" but I never forgot him . My sympathy goes out to all. Kathy (Gerstner).
Kristine Gerstner/Clark
July 24, 2006
Mr. McCarren
My deepest sympathies go out to you and your families.
I was fortunate to know Fred during our first eight years while attending Saint Paul’s School. My twin and I had also experienced our 1st crush! And it was on Fred. He was a “hottie” in the first grade and all the way up to 8th grade. I feel certain he was the “first” real crush for a lot of other girls) We experienced the beginning of his acting career at Saint Paul’s School first handed and the rest is history!
His high schools plays never went unnoticed. Or his “fame” that reached us out on the West Coast. When I moved out of Butler for a few years I was kept apprised bout our “hometown star” by my Mother. She kept me updated on what movies he would be in, the TV shows that he was featured and the commercials he made. I always received the Butler Eagles’ news clips about what Fred had accomplished.
Sincerely,
Kristine Gerstner Clark
Sue (Pataski) Barron
July 20, 2006
To The McCarren Families....... Thinking of all of you at this sad time. Fred will long be remembered in Butler and all over the Country. May God bless all of you......
Liz (Graham)Bello
July 18, 2006
To the McCarren families,
May all your good memories help to carry you through this very difficult time. Fred had a wonderful ability of spreading joy and importance to the many lives he touched. I am truly thankful that I made the phone call to speak with him at Sunnyview. God be with you. Love and prayers to all of you.
Colby (Bayne) Imbrie
July 15, 2006
Lisa,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Although we've lost touch a few years after high school, I often think of you. May the love of friends and family comfort you through your time of sadness.
LINDA RUNKLE LYDIC
July 15, 2006
TO THE MCCARREN FAMILY,
I KNOW NONE OF THE KIDS WILL REMEMBER ME BUT I WAS ONE OF THE FIRST BABY-SITTERS FOR THE OLDER ONES IN THE HULL PLAN--TOO MANY YEARS AGO!! MY CONDOLENCES TO ALL OF YOU. MY MOM, WHO JUST PASSED AWAY JUNE 14TH, WOULD ALWAYS TRY TO SEE ANYTHING FREDDIE WAS IN. GOD BLESS!!!
Kelly Automotive
July 14, 2006
To The Entire McCarren Family,
You all have our Deepest Sympathy.
Fred was a joy to work with when we had our Mall Store for Kelly Chevrolet and Hyundai. The Customers loved him as much as we did. You are in our Prayers.
The Staff at Kelly's
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Snodgrass Jr.
July 12, 2006
I hadn't seen Fred in a long while but have many good memories of working with him in high school. We were shocked to hear this sad news. Our condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.
Lainey Voigt
July 12, 2006
Lisa,
Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you and your children. You're in my prayers.
darrell and justin crispin
July 11, 2006
may God bless your family
IRENE SCHWARTZ
July 10, 2006
DEAR CHARLEY AND MARILYN AND FAMILY,SO VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF FRED'S PASSING. HE WAS A GREAT GUY AND MADE SO MANY PEOPLE HAPPY. WHAT A WONDERFUL LEGACY! ALSO I MISS SEEING YOU BOTH. I AM HAPPY HERE IN TUCSON BUT OF COURSE I AM LOST WITHOUT HERB
IRENE SCHWARTZ
Jeff McAnallen
July 10, 2006
My condolences to all of you. I know how much Fred meant to each of you. Having lost my brother, Larry, last year, I can feel the pain you are going through. But remember, its really not an ending but the beginning of something new for Fred. Mary, what can I say? Patsy, its been a long time since you, Dave and Abby drove off from our house in Boulder. I miss you guys. Send an email.
MacKenzie Fagan
July 10, 2006
Lizzie, I was sorry to hear about your dad. He was so proud to come and watch you play basketball. We will all miss him cheering for us.
Love your friend-MacKenzie(Munchkin)Fagan
Philip Hopbell
July 10, 2006
I am saddend and very sorry to hear about Fred's passing.
Jody Polen (Edinger)
July 9, 2006
To the McCarren Family,
My prayers are with you. Fred was an amazing individual: kind and personable. He made you feel accepted, no matter who you were.Incredibly talented, a natural. I'm blessed to have had the pleasure of working on several local plays with him. He never ran out of ideas. You could give him any object and he could create a whole scene around it entertaining us for hours: and that was before any professional training. When we did Hayfever, he sketched caricatures of each cast member. I still have mine.I hope he knew what an inspiration he was for many of us. This is the Fred I will always remember.
May the peace of God wich passes all understanding comfort you.
Rhonda Schwartz D'Antuono
July 9, 2006
funny, generous, talented, special--the first time I met Fred this was evident. Then to enjoy his antics with Dick, Bob, and whoever else happened by was a rare treat in Jr and Sr High.Of course, I've had the back of his signed class of 69 picture memorized and with me for all these years--"For you, I have made a joke--Why do fireman wear red suspenders?--To get to the other side!" To an 18 yr old in Butler in 1969 that pretty much said it all!! Fred will be missed. Hello and sincere sympathy to all the McCarren families, Rhonda Schwartz D'Antuono -Tucson, Arizona
Linda Vanderzee-Sloan
July 9, 2006
To the McCarren family:
Fred touched many lives during his time on earth and he surely will touch many more in heaven. My sympathy to you all.
Patty (Shipkowski) Cowan
July 8, 2006
To the entire McCarren family, my heart goes out to you all. I remember Fred so well from high school & our great "Class of 69". What a talented person. Special prayers & extra blessings to you all. Heaven is certainly enjoying his talents now.
Tracy Gamble
July 8, 2006
A 4th of July cannot pass without remembering Fred. He was the Pied Piper of Vanalden in the '80's and all the children in the neighborhood loved the man who could make them laugh. Those children are pretty grown up now, and they will never forget him. He touched many.
Linda Bennitt-Hemmes
July 7, 2006
Dear McCarren Family ~ I knew Fred only in the third person. Through other people. Yet, I am devastated and so deeply saddened by his loss. In pondering that concept, I think it only demonstrates the power of his being. Heaven is richer - we are poorer. Praise the Lord for sweet memories. Laughter has risen to an all new level among the angels.
Paul Reed
July 7, 2006
Just had to write and send our sympathy to the whole family. Brought back good memories of my time spent working at the store, I can still see Fred when he was in high school and when he went to clown school in Fla. I enjoyed my times at the store, remember Charlie , Sr. taking me to Country Club for golf, he was better than me. Best wishes to Charlie, Jr. and Mike. Our thoughts and prayers are with your whole family. Phyllis and I live with our daughter and 4 grandchildren in Michigan and our son and wife live in MN. God Bless, Paul Reed & Family
Joe Rovetto
July 6, 2006
I am truly sorry to read of Fred's passing. I childhood friend who will be dearly missed. I will not forget the times of playing sockie in the alley behind his house or sleeping out under the his back porch which we called 'The Bahamas'. The McCarrens will always hold a spot in our heart.
Larry Goettler
July 6, 2006
To the entire McCarren family, we offer our deepest sympathy. Fred made all of us very proud as he spread laughter and joy to so many. He truly had a special gift. He will be greatly missed. We felt lucky to grow up beside such great neighbors as the McCarrens. We are fortunate to have his wonderful daughter Millie working with us. She does her Daddy proud, as do all his children. God bless you all. If the measure of a man is how much joy he brings into the world, then Fred was a very big man indeed.
Justin Werth
July 6, 2006
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Fred. Living across the street from the McCarren's for many years, Fred was like a second Dad to me. We shared so many great times together watching movies and joking around. He made me feel like I was a McCarren kid. I am so sorry that I can't be in Butler to share my sypmathies. But you all are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you guys.
Dale Cornetti
July 6, 2006
I am truly sorry to hear of Fred's Passing, I went to "St. Pauls School" with him, and he as always the best guy in the class.knowledgeable Smart had the right answers and kept the sister's on their toes. He was Friendly and cheerful I still watch for his commercials on the Tv and mention to my wife when i see him. I can always pick out that McCarren smile. He will be
Sadly missed by all.
Judy Saleet
July 6, 2006
All the little things Fred did is
what you will remember~
the quiet moments, the smiles,
the laughter.
And though it may
seem hard right now,the memory of these moments, will help you push through the pain and bring you comfort in having loved such a wonderful man~ Our sincere sympathy and prayers are with you ~ May God Bless you~
Norman & Judy (Leventhal) Saleet
Scott Craig
July 6, 2006
My deepest sympathy to the entire McCarren family. I have known this family for many years but mostly as a young man. What I remember most is when Dave and I would find us in some form of devilish trouble, all it took was for Fred to appear with that charismatic smile and smooth talk to get us out of trouble once again.
Scott E. Craig
Sue
July 6, 2006
McCarren Family: I never knew Fred personally, but admired his great talent. I saw many of the productions he was in locally and was proud to know that a local boy had earned the right to moved on to the "big time". Our loss is Heaven's gain. And they are having a wonderful time with Fred there!
Bob Gearhart
July 5, 2006
What a tremendous loss! I was privileged to know Fred for more than 40 years. We've been good buddies ever since high school. I also had the great pleasure of moving to California with him in 1979 when his career was just taking off. Back then, Fred had one of the first video cameras (that weighed about 50 lbs.) and we used to lug it all over L.A. shooting crazy home movies, acting like the Marx Brothers. Those were incredibly fun times. Fact is, anytime spent with Fred was special. He was truly one of the most colorful and creative people I’ve ever known and easily one of the most influential people in my life. I know he’s had that same effect on others. After he and his family returned to Butler, I would spend much of my vacation time there, just horsing around in his basement with he & his wonderful kids. As sad as I am now, I feel blessed to have known him so long and grateful for a lifetime of memories which I will always cherish. Thanks for all those wonderful memories Fred ... one of these days, maybe we’ll finish that TV script we started ...
To Lisa & the kids, and ALL the McCarren families ... my deepest sympathies. Sorry I can’t be there during this sad time, but my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Here’s to Fred and his legacy of love and laughter ...
Sincerely,
Nancy Andreassi
July 5, 2006
This sad surprise is only mitigated by the certainty that the uniquely resilient McCarren family will be buoyed by the return of all the love and joy they've so consistently cultivated. The wonderful Pearl Street clan Fred hailed from made for some of the dearest friends my own siblings ever had. I wish Fred's family didn't have to suffer this loss, but I hope the lasting intensity of his great character somehow compensates for the separation.
nancy mimless
July 5, 2006
I knew Fred as a fellow actor. His talents and generosity were immeasurable. I will miss his guidance and friendly manner. He was a good guy that will truly be missed by all who knew him. I send my sympathies to his family and friends.
Deb Silvis Illo
July 5, 2006
Fred was a senior when I was a sophomore in high school. One of my fondest memories from those years was playing a chambermaid being chased across stage by Fred as King Sextimus the Silent in the Summer Dramatics Project production of "Once Upon a Mattress." His insight and playful treatment made our brief entrance into the scene a show-stopper, and an uproariously fun moment that will live in my mind forever. I simply cannot believe he is gone. God bless your entire family.
Carrie Barton
July 5, 2006
To the McCarren Family,
Fred's just fine. The hardest part is for the family and friends, the survivors. I am profoundly sad for your loss and am sorry you have to endure the pain. My heart is with you all. I will never forget the time Bob G. took me over to FINALLY meet the legend, Fred McCarren. We had a beer, great conversation and many laughs down in the basement with all that stuff in it!
Rosemary Smith Natale
July 5, 2006
My heart is filled with sorrow for your family. As a distant cousin to Freddy I watched as he became the dynamic person who was loved by so many. Charlie & Marilyn my thoughts are with you today and always. I often flashback to the wonderful memories of time shared at the store and family gatherings. May you find comfort in knowing how many people Freddy touched with his McCarren charm.
David & Stevie (Boros) Andrew
July 5, 2006
We know that Fred will be missed by all his close friends and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Time and distance have a way of keeping us from staying in touch, but Fred was a great friend and entertainer to all who had the good fortune to know him. He will be missed.
Charles Cingolani
July 5, 2006
I am thinking of you, Charley. How deeply this must wound you. I've got you on my mind constantly during these most difficult days.
Holly (Hageman) Hartzell
July 5, 2006
Lisa & Family,
When you were younger and living on Wilson Avenue, my former mother-in-law - Connie Hageman Brown lived a few houses down from your family. I remember this very sweet & pretty young lady(you) and remember reading of your marriage to Fred McCarren. Our family would look for Fred in various programs when we knew he would be on them and what a great sense of pride he would bring to Butler County!
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family in this tremendous loss.
Holly (Hageman) Hartzell
Butler PA
Judy Tiberi Kaufmann
July 4, 2006
Knowing how broken hearted the sweet McCarren family is, now that Fred is gone, brings me to tears. I know I can speak for all the Hill girls who knew him ...we will miss our Fred ... our first crush.
Our prayers are with you all.
Judy, Wyatt, Taylor and Oliver, jr.
Bonnie (Shearer) Vensel
July 4, 2006
My Deepest Sympathy goes out to you and your family. Fred was such a great guy and friend in high school. Through the years we all lose touch, but when I would see him on tv I would tell my kids and grandkids I graduated with him and what a swell guy he was.
Know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
July 4, 2006
Patricia (Tricia) Barker (Handte)
July 4, 2006
It was an honor to have known such a talented, intelligent, fun-loving individual as Fred. My deepest sympathy to all his family and friends.
Tom and Becky (Hoffman) Wiles
July 4, 2006
Young Fred was a magnet who pulled those with a love of role playing into his daily adventures. Playing out movie scenes, or seeing what reactions would ensue when an impromptu street performance by Fred and his close buddies would unfold: these were the joys and magic of being around Fred.
We are all saddened today by the passing of our dear friend Fred.
Our hearts go out to all his family as they mourn his loss, but also as they celebrate his wonderful, extraordinary life!
sue sherman(albert)
July 4, 2006
my deepest sympathy in your loss,Fredwas a great classmate and friend,he wiil truly be missed.God bless him and his family.
Denise Brown Day
July 4, 2006
As we get older we lose touch with friends from high school, but everytime I saw Fred, whether personally, or through the media I felt connected and happy for him that he was doing what he loved. He was an entertainer, and the Class of 69' adored him for it. He made us laugh and he certainly entertain us, what a joy he was to see in action. God blessed you with a talent and we got to witness it, how fortunate we all were. To his faimly and close freinds my thoughts and prayers are with you, and all who loved him.
Randy Tracy
July 4, 2006
Heaven got a little brighter when Fred arrived this week. God bless you, Fred. And God bless his entire family and friends.
Prayers and thoughts,
Randy Tracy Family
Tom Ritchey
July 4, 2006
Dear McCarren Family ...
While we were hayseeds from Saxonburg, I'd gotten to know Fred thru mutual friends. He was a great guy and wonderful talent. Like so many, I can still see him on the Butler HS stage. Many join you in mourning Fred's passing, remembering his victories, and celebrating his life.
Cyndy Nicholson
July 4, 2006
Me deepest sympathy and prayers to your family. I too smile when I think of Fred. Fred, Patsy and I certainly had some fun in our Pittsburgh days. Those memories will live on.
Christine Chaussee (McCarren)
July 4, 2006
I would consider Fred to be one of my favorite Uncles. When we were young, it was always a thrill when Uncle Freddy would come to town and a very exciting day when he would draw pictures of us and mail them to us. My parents still cherish the amazing photos that he took of us as children. When we moved to California, I always enjoyed staying with Uncle Fred,the countless pool parties, learning to play "hall Hockey", and our late night chats while watching David Letterman. I will miss him. My sincere love goes out to my cousins, my thoughts are with you all.
Lori Linkiewicz
July 3, 2006
For the short time I knew Fred he touched my heart.I wish I could have known him longer.
Cyndy Nicholson
July 3, 2006
I am so very sorry to hear about Fred.He and Patsy and I had so many laughs. My deapest sympathy goes out to your family.
Garry Vernon
July 3, 2006
Lisa, we are sorry for your loss. Though we only knew Fred for the short time when we lived on North McKean Street, my children still talk about Fred.
Our Deepest Sympathies
The Vernon's
Alan Campbell and Family
July 3, 2006
Good Bye Freddy.
Though we lost touch these last years my memories of the laughs and good times we shared remain strong.You taught me so much about being a good and fun Dad.My heart goes out to Lisa and your sons and daughters. You live on through all of us who loved and laughed with you along the way.
Nancy Murphy-Daw
July 3, 2006
Fred was one of those high school classmates that you just never forgot about. Everytime I browse my Magnets, 1967 thru 1969, I also had to stop & smile remembering him in all the wonderful roles he played. Especialy his multiple roles in "Little Me". I too always got the biggest kick when I would recognize him in the many TV commercials he was still doing. My deepest sympathy goes out to his wife & all his children. What a great loss for this community.
Patsy Jacob
July 3, 2006
I am so sad to hear about Fred. My love to you and Marilyn and all your family. You will be in my prayers.
Richard Diehl
July 3, 2006
f. All I want to know is what's the name of the guy on first base?
d. What's the name of the guy on second base.
f. I'm not asking you who's on second.
d. Who is on first.
f. I don't know.
d. He's on third, we're not talking about him.
Proud to have been your first straight man - Dick Diehl
Evan Dusheck
July 3, 2006
I was deeply saddened to hear of Fred's passing. I'll have many fond memories of Fred and will remember his entertaining personality and sense of humor. You have my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila (Cress) Smith
July 3, 2006
OH MY..........Fred was an accomplished Actor WAY back to High School when he was the Lead in our Senior play..... "My Fair Lady."I will miss recognizing him on T.V., but will ALWAYS remember his Smile and Wonderful sense of humor. God stands beside all of his most Loving family.
An "old" classmate. Sheila(Cress)Smith
Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results
Make a Donation
in Frederick McCarren's name
Memorial Events
for Frederick McCarren
How to support Frederick's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Frederick McCarren's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
