Joseph Frederick Lohr

Joseph Frederick Lohr, known to friends and family as Fred, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Tampa Gardens Senior Living Center. He was 91 years old and died from complications of abdominal cancer.

Born on August 25, 1933 in Lakeland, Florida, Fred was the son of Joseph A. Lohr and Maurine S. Read Lohr. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Carol Biddle Lohr; his son, William Linc Lohr; his stepson, Ryan Dietrick Walton; his father, Joseph A. Lohr; and his mother, Maurine S. Read Lohr.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Peggy Baugh; nephews, Byron Baugh and Brent Baugh; Byron's wife, Megan Hammer; niece, Adrienne Lawton Hery; Adrienne's husband Eric Hery; and great-niece, June Ray Hery.

Fred had a lifelong passion for football. He played as a tight end for the Lakeland High School Dreadnaughts, the University of Florida Gators, the U.S. Army team, and the Florida Brahmans. Beyond the gridiron, he was an enthusiastic lover of fine food and was especially fond of Bern's Steak House and Donatello Italian Restaurant in Tampa. He also cherished visits to the Reececliff Family Diner in Lakeland, often talking about one day buying the restaurant and turning it into a franchise.

A dedicated and hardworking professional, Fred was a licensed general contractor for more than 50 years and managed residential rental properties until the age of 90. He also enjoyed restoring antique cars, a hobby that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and history.

Joseph Frederick Lohr - one of a kind. He will be interred at Lakeland Memorial Gardens.

A graveside service will take place on Monday, October 20 at 1:00 PM at Lakeland Memorial Gardens, 2125 South Bartow Hwy, Lakeland, FL 33801.