Fremond E. Kunz, Jr.

Fremond E. “Fred” Kunz, Jr., 79, of Lebanon, Illinois, passed away on March 25, 2026, at his home.

Fred was born on December 6, 1946, to Fremond Kunz, Sr. and Betty (nee Rieger) Korte. As the oldest of seven children, he grew up learning responsibility early in life, something that would define the man he became.

He graduated from Lebanon High School in 1964 and, following in his father’s footsteps, proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years, and was stationed in Schwabish Gmund, Germany. That same sense of duty and discipline carried with him throughout his life.

From a young age, Fred also learned the art of farming alongside his father. Farming was more than a career to him; it was a lifelong calling, rooted in hard work, discipline, and pride in providing for his family.

On November 24, 1972, he married the love of his life, Susan “Susie” (nee Fohne) Kunz. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and commitment, sharing over 48 years of marriage before her passing.

Fred was a bright, energy-filled man who brought a smile to those around him. He had a natural way of lifting a room and was known for being a relentless teaser and jokester, especially with the people he loved most. That was his way of saying, “I love you.”

As a father, he believed in raising strong men of character and discipline. He taught his sons to stand firm in their values, to be committed to their families, and to understand that if you wanted something in life, you had to work tirelessly to earn it. His approach was often tough love, but it was grounded in deep care and a desire to prepare his boys for life. He thoroughly enjoyed watching his boys participate in basketball and baseball. He would often keep his own stats for Jeff and Jason. He eventually even loved watching Cross Country and some track meets.

Everything changed when he became a grandfather. The man who rarely smiled for pictures suddenly couldn’t help himself when a grandchild was nearby. He found immense joy in his grandchildren - still teasing them, of course, but also showing a softer, more playful side. He loved watching their activities and sports, and nothing made him prouder than seeing them grow.

Fred was a passionate sports fan, proudly supporting the St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Cardinals, and Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball. He also took great pride in wearing his Lebanon Greyhound and Indiana State Sycamores gear, always staying connected to family and community.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Kunz; father and stepmother, Fremond and Vera Kunz; mother, Betty Korte; and brothers, Daniel Kunz and David Kunz.

He is survived by his children, Jeff (Angela) Kunz of Louisville, KY; Jason (Sheryl) Kunz of Lebanon, IL; Jeremy (Kayla) Kunz of Richmond Hill, GA; and Justin (Kimberly) Kunz of Terre Haute, IN; his grandchildren, Ariel Kunz, Zach Carter, Devin Woosley, Navi Woosley, Callie Kunz, Avalynn Kunz, Sophia Kunz, Harrison Kunz, Oscar Kunz, Elaine Kunz, and Ezra Kunz; and his siblings, Steve (Jane) Kunz, Christine (Fred) Lanning, Alan (Jane) Kunz, and Dawn (Bart) Gruender, brother-in law Thomas (Susan) Fohne and sister-in law Jane (Robert) Wilhelm along with many close nieces, nephews, cousins and cherish friends.

Fred will be remembered for his energy, his humor, his unwavering work ethic, and the deep love he showed, often through laughter, lessons, and a long story that could have been much shorter. His legacy will live on in the family he raised and the values he instilled in them.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Lebanon High School Education Foundation or to S. Paul UCC Lebanon.

Services are pending.

Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL