Fredric Schmolesky

Fredric Schmolesky of Wautoma, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 1st surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and dedication to family and community. Born on July 7, 1937 in Fond du Lac, WI, Fred lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, artistry, and a deep commitment to those around him.

Fred proudly served in the United States Army, embodying the values of honor and duty throughout his life. He built a successful career as a lifelong salesman and manager with Family Record Plan, where his integrity, warmth and sense of humor earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Fred attended the Layton School of Art, where he discovered a lifelong passion for wildlife art. His talent and dedication led to numerous awards through the Rural Rembrandt Art Club exhibits. His works can be seen hanging on the walls of the Silvercryst, the Moose Inn and on the walls and Christmas trees of family and friends. Fred’s work continues to inspire those who appreciate the beauty of nature through an artist’s eyes.

Fred was also an active member of his community, serving on the Little Hills Lake Association board for decades, where he worked to preserve and enhance the place he loved so dearly. He was known for his unique ability to “procure” the door prizes for the annual lake association meeting. The local businesses will dearly miss Fred’s visits.

In his free time Fred enjoyed a raucous game of cribbage with family, sheep’s head with the guys and was known as an “ardent sportsment”.

Fred and his wife Barb bought their first home in Byron, Wisconsin in 1965 where they raised their family before retiring to their lake home in 1999. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Schmolesky, and their children: Brad Schmolesky, Todd Schmolesky  wife Michelle), and Carie Mason (husband Paul) . Fred was a proud grandfather to Brittany, Lucas (wife Hannah), McKenzie, Adam, Caitlyn, Chloe (husband Nolan), Ben, and Rylie. Fred was preceded in death by his parents Vern and Ester and his brother Michael. He is survived by his sisters Ann Wilhelms (husband Ron) and Mary Coffman (husband Bob deceased).

Fred will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, artistic soul, and unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him and the Christmas trees that hold his painted ornaments.

Visitation, Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 17th at 11am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 364 S. Cambridge St., Wautoma, WI. Visitation will be from 10-11am followed by Mass at 11am. All are invited to join the family to celebrate Fred’s life in the church hall following Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wautoma, Salvation Army of Fond du Lac or the charity you feel best honors Fred’s memory.