Frederick H. Willms

Frederick Willms, 85, of Ocean Township, New Jersey

Frederick (Fred) Willms, age 85, of Ocean Township, was born in Newark, NJ, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 12, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and proud public servant, Frederick lived a life defined by loyalty, hard work, and service to others.

Frederick married his lifelong friend, Elizabeth "Betty" Morris Willms, with whom he just celebrated 59 loving years, togetherthey raised three sons-Frederick Jr., Douglas, and Robert-who he was extremely proud of.

Frederick proudly served in the United States Army, where he discovered his passion for electronics. After completing his service, he began repairing televisions, eventually building his way up to owning his own TV repair shop. His skill and ambition later led him into the Aerospace industry, where he continued to excel in a career that reflected his curiosity and technical talent.

Deeply committed to his community, Frederick served as a volunteer firefighter for six decades. He began his service with the Goodwill Fire Department in Spring Lake, NJ, from 1963 to 1966, later transferring to the Oakhurst Independent Hose Company No. 1. There he served as a volunteer, then a Line Officer, and ultimately became Chief in 1977. His leadership extended beyond the department-he served as President of the Monmouth County First Aid Council from 1977 to 1981, and later as Fire Commissioner in Fire District No. 1 for 15 years. A 10-year member of the Oakhurst First Aid Squad, 60-year lifemember of the Asbury Park-Wall Elks lodge # 128, Fred also dedicated 25 years of service to the Township of Ocean Republican Committee as a committee member.

Frederick is survived by his beloved wife Elizabeth (Betty) Morris Willms, sons Frederick Jr. (Karen), Douglas (Kathel), and Robert; grandchildren Savannah, Dawn, Michael (Dakota), Mathew, and Mitchell; and great-grandchildren Thea and Kolby. He is also survived by his siblings Joan Fredericks, Arthur (Marie), Arlene Prast (Walter), and Carl (Patricia), along with many nieces and nephews who cherished him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Frances Willms, and his daughter-in-law Lisa Willms.

Frederick will be remembered for his dedication to family, his commitment to service, and the quiet strength he brought to every role he held. His legacy lives on in all who loved him.

Visitation will be from 4-7 pm Thursday at the Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road in Oakhurst, Ocean Township. Funeral services will be on Friday at 11 AM at the funeral home. Interment services will follow with Millitary Honors at Saint Anne's Cemetery in Glendola. Repass to follow at Oakhurst Firehouse Station #1, the Firehouse he served for many years with pride and honor. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.