Frederick J. Wanat

Chicopee-Frederick J. Wanat, 87 passed away on May 11, 2024. He was born in Holyoke, MA on May 30, 1936, he was the son of the late Jacob and Victoria (Masztal) Wanat. Frederick grew up and raised his family in Holyoke but spent the last 20 years in Chicopee with his loving wife Joan (Prych) Wanat.
In 1955, Fredrick enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country for 4 years. While in the navy he received the National Defense Service Medal as well as the Navy Good Conduct Medal. After his time in the Navy Frederick started his entrepreneurial venture with various companies such as Garden of Eden Hot Tubs and West Side Glass. Fred worked at Chandler Glass for 20 years prior to his retirement.
Fred was a member of the George Burns Choral, Mater Dolorosa Choir, as well as serving as an altar boy at the church.
When Frederick was not working, he loved to spend his free time traveling as much as he could. He backpacked through Europe and was able to visit over 36 different countries during his travels. He loved to collect a variety of different items as well as developed a love for photography and videography. Frederick also loved to spend time with his friends and family. He looked forward to his weekly outings with his breakfast group of friends to the Egg & I Restaurant.
Fred's family would like to thank Dr. Boyce and Dr. Mateen as well as the Holyoke Hospital 4th floor staff for the excellent care that he received.
Frederick was predeceased by his only sister, Genevieve Scribner. He is survived by his loving wife Joan, his two sons Frederick Wanat Jr. (Joanne), and Paul Wanat (Kathy). He is also survived by and will be deeply missed by his four grandchildren, Alexandra, Matthew, Melissa, Nicholas and two great grandchildren Myla and Wells. Fred is also survived by his niece, Christine Rybak.
Visitation with the family of Frederick will be held on Sunday, May 19 at Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home from 2PM-4PM with a funeral service on Monday May 20 at 10AM followed by a procession to Mater Dolorosa Cemetery for a burial with military honors. Please consider making a donation to the Mater Dolorosa Catholic School, 15 Maple St., Holyoke, MA 01040.
Please visit www.beersandstory.com
Beers and Story - South Hadley