Frederick Bowers "Fred" Tawes III

Frederick "Fred" Bowers Tawes III was born on December 13, 1949, at the Army hospital in El Paso, Texas. He spent his early childhood on base at Fort Bliss, where his father was stationed, before the family relocated to Worms, Germany, when his father took command as a battalion leader. After several years abroad, they returned to El Paso for a second tour, and later moved to Taiwan, where his father served as an advisor to the Chinese Nationalist Air Force.

Fred attended the Taipei American School, a private institution serving international military and diplomatic families. He later settled in Norman, Oklahoma, where he graduated from Norman High School, earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and an MBA from Oklahoma City University.

On December 8, 1981, Fred married Cheryl Jean Lindley, and together they welcomed their daughter, Nanette Elaine Tawes.

Fred served honorably in the United States Army for over 30 years, ultimately retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His career was marked by courage, intelligence, and a profound dedication to his fellow soldiers. He served across the world, from South and Central America to Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, consistently volunteering for the most challenging assignments in times of war.

From March 2003 to January 2004, Fred commanded the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) Konduz, Afghanistan, one of the first of its kind. Working alongside UN, NATO, and embassy officials, he helped build the framework for local governance and reconstruction in post-war Afghanistan. Under his leadership, his team completed more than $1.2 million in humanitarian projects, including the construction of schools, hospitals, and wells.

Fred's service earned him numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Germany's Silver Cross of Honor, and more than 15 additional medals and ribbons for his leadership and valor. He held advanced military education from the Command and General Staff School, the JFK School of Special Warfare (Civil Affairs), and Joint Special Operations University.

Beyond the Army, Fred served as a Norman police officer and dedicated 30 years to the State of Oklahoma's IT sector.

Those who knew Fred knew his greatest pride wasn't in his medals or rank-it was in his people. His soldiers, his colleagues, and his family. He led with compassion and conviction, believing deeply in service and accountability.

Outside the Army, Fred was endlessly curious and passionate about history, world events, and military strategy. He could talk for hours about any topic and had a gift for making anyone feel seen and heard. He was a thoughtful listener, a loyal companion, and a loving father.

Fred is survived by Cheryl Lindley Tawes, his daughter Nanette Tawes and her partner Jason Richmond, his beloved dog Shelby, his brother John Paul Tawes Jr. and wife Fran, nieces Mary Tawes and Meg Tawes Herlihy and her husband Reid, and their daughters Christina and Charlotte; his sister Caroline Tawes and her partner Daniel Ralph; brother- and sister-in-law Mike and Judy Schornick; nephew Justin Schornick, his wife Erin, and their daughters Loralei and Rae; nephew Gary, his wife Kala Sharp, and their sons Jae and Sam; brother-in-law Paul Lindley; and countless fellow servicemen who will forever remember his integrity, intelligence, and humor.

He is preceded in death by his father John Paul Tawes, mother Vera Lambert Tawes, mother-in-law Deloris Lindley, father-in-law Paul Melvin Lindley, sister-in-law Paula Sharp, brother-in-law Kay Sharp, and his beloved dogs Xena and Brinkley.

He will be remembered not only for his extraordinary service, but for the fierce love and loyalty he showed to those closest to him. Fred was the best father a daughter could ever hope for - devoted, protective, and endlessly proud of Nanette. He was her hero and her greatest supporter. His love for his dog Shelby was just as deep; she was his constant companion and source of joy, and the bond they shared was unbreakable. Fred's spirit will live on in those who loved him most.

A private celebration of life will be held with immediate family at a later date.

Those who wish to share memories, photos, or stories of Fred are warmly invited to send them to frederickbtawes@gmail.com, where they will be treasured by his daughter.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Project (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/) in honor of Fred's life and service.