Fred Chase II

Fred Chase II

Gill, MA - We are saddened to announce the passing of Fred O. Chase II of Gill who was surrounded by family as he left to join his late wife of 59 years, Andrea (Harris) Chase on Wednesday March 12, 2025. Fred was someone who would come to whenever they needed advice, ranging from local history, fabrications, and Mack truck restorations. A fountain of knowledge, it seemed as if he knew at least something on just about everything.

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A lifetime resident of Gill, Massachusetts, Fred attended schools in the Gill/Montague area, and graduated from Turners Falls High School in 1965. Rather than complete a degree, he became an A.S.E. certified mechanic, and in 1968, he became a master mechanic for Northfield Sand & Gravel, and later Lane Construction for three states. In the 1980s, he built a convenience and antiques shop, as well as his own repair and towing shop. In the early 2000s, Fred and his son specialized in antique Mack restoration.

Fred was involved in many boards for the town of Gill, and was a co-founder of the Western Mass Chapter of the Antique Truck Club of America, where he ran as the longest serving national president.

In 2024, he, his son, and grandson worked on restoring town cemeteries together.

Fred also served as a Gill police officer, and rose to the rank of sergeant and acting police chief numerous times. On top of that, he was a junior Gill firefighter and rose to the rank of Engineer, and a first aid instructor for the American Heart Association. For 40 years up until his final day, he was an elected town constable.

In his spare time, he was an avid reader, and typically read 1 to 2 books a day, usually on the topic of history.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lewis N. Chase Sr. and A. Gertrude (Orr) Chase.

Fred is survived by his children, Joyce Russ and Fred Chase III, his grandchildren Ashley Paquette, Amber Russ, and Ethan Chase, his 5 great-grandchildren, his cat Willy, and his best friend-who was like a brother to him-Cameron Kirkpatrick.

A celebration of life is being planned, and will be announced soon.

The burial will be privately held for the family on Fred and Andrea's anniversary.

We ask that any donations be made to Gill Police, Gill Fire, Northfield Ambulance, and the Antique Truck Club of America-either the Western MA chapter, or the National.

Kidder Funeral Home , 1 Parker Ave., Northfield, Mass is in charge of arrangements.