Frederick J. Darling

Frederick J. "Fred" Darling
Clinton
Frederick J. "Fred" Darling, 100, of Clinton, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at the Siegenthaler Center with his loving family by his side.
He was born on July 8, 1925 in Utica, son of the late Gerald and Ruth (O'Connor) Darling and was educated in Utica Schools. When Fred was just 17 years old, he proudly served his country, enlisting in the US Marine Corps during WWII and was a machine gunner during the Battle of Okinawa. On September 27, 1947, he was united in marriage to Jacqueline A. Knight in Utica and shared a blessed union of 78 years. Fred was employed by Niagara Mohawk Power Co., retiring as a supervisor in 1986 after 40 years of service. He was a member of the Edward L. Clonan Post 1000 American Legion, Chadwicks and the Last Man Club. Fred was recognized and honored for his Military service in the Whitestown, New Hartford and Chadwick's Parades and received several proclamations for his service.
Fred was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed nearly 40 years at his summer camp at Lewis Point on Oneida Lake, entertaining family and friends, boating, and hunting. Fred also enjoyed traveling to Florida to visit his granddaughter Jen and her husband Bill. He loved cars, old and new and was a good mechanic. He was also a very talented carpenter, building 2 houses over the years.
Surviving are his wife, Jackie, Clinton; daughter, Linda (Robert) Shaul, Clinton; sons, Thomas Darling, Clinton and Frederick "John" Darling Jr, Washington Mills; cherished granddaughter, Jennifer (Bill) Patterson, Wintergarden, FL; sister, Jeannette Light; sister-in-law, Sue Darling; brothers-in-law, Peter LeClair and Dave Knight and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters, Marion Cahill, Pricilla "Pat" Burn, Beverly Newton, Barbara Murphy, Suzanne "Suzie" Kress, Nancy Tucker and Joan LeClair and brothers, Paul and Jerome "Jerry" Darling.
Fred's family wishes to extend their gratitude to Hospice & Palliative Care for all their wonderful care and compassion. They would also like to thank their Cherrywood community and staff for their friendship and support.
In keeping with Fred's wishes, there will be no public visitation. Arrangements are with Smith Funeral Home, 3022 Oneida St., Sauquoit.
Remembrances in Fred's name may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413.
Online tributes at www.smith-funeralhome.com