Fredrick Harold Colen

Fredrick "Fred" Harold Colen, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away surrounded by those who loved him on August 19, 2025, in Albion, Indiana, at the age of 81. Born on May 26, 1944, in San Diego, California, to the late Harold and Martha (Adams) Colen, Fred was known for his loving spirit, courage, and kindness throughout his life.

Fred grew up alongside his two sisters, Melody (Paul) Garber and Janice Colen, and two brothers, Rick and John (Lisa) Colen, in a family where the bonds of love and support were deeply woven into the fabric of their lives. His journey led him to the Wolf Lake area in the 1970’s. In 1985, he wed KayAnn Erdly and they shared their lives together until her unfortunate passing 1998. His journey then led him to Judy Haney, and they married in 1999. Fred was the cornerstone of his family, including his four daughters Kimberly Erdly, Inger Berntson, Freya Berntson, and Gretchen (Jamie) Watkins, and two sons, Harold (Rhiannon) Colen and David (Pam) Colen. He was also the proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren, including Zachary Knafel and Katelyn (Josh) Noe, all of whom will cherish his memory and the legacy of love he instilled in them.

A highly skilled welder and fabricator, Fred dedicated many years of his life to his craft, taking pride in his work and its contribution to the industry he loved. His talents extended beyond his profession into his personal life, where his love for animals, constant quest for learning, and fascination with space exploration-especially NASA missions-were well known amongst his friends and family. Fred's ability to fix and create things was nothing short of brilliant, and his resourcefulness was often sought after by those who knew him.

Also known as “Crabby”, he truly was the dad he didn’t have to be. He was loved by almost everyone and most people have at least one great “Fred” story.

Fred embraced a very strong sense of community, family, and friendships. The world truly was a better and much more interesting place and those who knew him are better for it. He worked, loved, and played hard. He showed kindness to all of God’s creatures. He kept a child’s wonder of the world.

The final ceremony details are still pending with the Wolf Lake VFW #4717. The details will be posted once they are finalized. Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway S., Ligonier, IN 46767, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Fred's honor may be given to the Humane Society of Noble County, 1305 Sherman St., Kendallville, IN 46755.