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Fred Lahti Obituary
Worcester - Fred W. Lahti, Jr. 73, a retired Worcester Firefighter, passed away with family by his side, Wednesday, April 14, 2021 from COVID-19 complications.
Fred was born and raised in Worcester, the son of Fred W. Lahti, Sr, and Irene (Winski) Lahti. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, serving proudly aboard the US aircraft carrier Shangri La. Upon discharge from the Navy, Fred returned home, married the "love of his life' Marie Messina, then settled in Worcester to raise their family over the next 49 years.
In 1972, Fred was appointed to the Fire Department for the City of Worcester where he served for the next 30 years, working at the former Winslow Street station, and moving to the Park Avenue Station when Winslow Street closed. He spent most of his service on Engine 4, retiring in 2002. After retirement, Fred and Marie split their time living in Worcester and enjoying warm winters in Orlando, Florida.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marie; his two children, Debra Huard and her husband Eli of Sutton, and Steven Lahti of Worcester; A brother, David Lahti and his wife Suzanne of Shrewsbury and sister, Diane Lahti of Worcester; three grandchildren whom he cherished; five nieces and nephews, and many extended family members, and friends.
Fred was a member of the IAFF, Local 1009 Union, and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 4 in Worcester. Fred loved to read, notably James Patterson books, watching NASCAR, and rooting for the New England Patriots. Fred and Marie enjoyed their time in Florida, cruising the Caribbean and traveling together. He was a man with a huge heart, exceptional sense of humor and great smile. Fred loved his job as a firefighter and the men he served with.
A period of calling hours will be held Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 from 9:30 to 11:00 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME and CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St followed by his funeral service at 11. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the VA Central Western Massachusetts, 421 N Main St, Leeds, MA 01053. centralwesternmass.va.gov. Live streaming of the service can be obtained by going to www.mercadantefuneral.com and clicking on live services beginning at 11:00 am Thursday.
www.mercadantefuneral.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Fred Lahti
Sponsored by Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester.
Joseph Dyer
April 21, 2021
My deepest condolences to Fred's family. I knew him as a great firefighter and good friend with great advice as I always hung out and rode with Group 3 back in the late 80s/early 90s
Mark Wyco
April 21, 2021
Always sad to see a good park Avenue guy leave. Always a nice easy going guy Safe home
April 21, 2021
Marie, Debbie and family,
We are very saddened by the untimely loss of dear Fred.
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
God Bless!
Colin and Vivienne Bedford and family.
Chris Fournier
April 21, 2021
Thoughts and prayers to your family. I have the pleasure of working with your lovely and talented daughter Debra. She is a true gift to her students. Thank you for your service Fred to our country and to the city of Worcester. Rest In Peace and God’s love.
Chris NL Worcester Vet Center
April 20, 2021
I am sorry to hear of Fred's passing. His humor will surely be missed.
Michele A DiLiddo
April 19, 2021
Marie and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Fred was such a pleasant man. Always smiling.
LEO R. GAUTHIER 4-ENGINE (RETIRED)
April 19, 2021
Sorry to her of Fred´s passing. Was a pleasure to have worked with Fred for many years on the 4-ENGINE. Always talked of his family.
Rest In Peace Fred. "K"
Fred Belanger
April 18, 2021
So sorry to hear of Fred´s passing worked with him 16 years. He always had a story.
Richard&Jeanne Houle
April 18, 2021
Marie and Family, Growing up with Freddy and our neighbor hood gang will always be remembered. Sorry for
your loss ,He will be in our prayers
Dennis M Collins
April 18, 2021
I had the pleasure to have known and worked with Fred on the fire dept. he was a great person,rest in peace fred.
Carlo DiPilato
April 18, 2021
Marie,
So sorry to learn of Fred’s passing. It was always a treat when he came into the store. He had that ready wit and unique perspective that was both entertaining and insightful. Many condolences & compassions to family and friends who will sorely miss him.
Betty Peterson
April 17, 2021
Marie, It's been too many years! Going back in my mind the day you & Fred married & the times before. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember you knew he was the "one" and enjoyed 49 years together. My heart is heavy for you.
Mrs Sharon Belanger
April 17, 2021
Brady and Family,
So, so sorry for the loss of your "Grandpa"!! I'm sure he was so special to you and your sister. Hold all the wonderful memories you have with him and he will always be close to you in your heart!!
Love, Mrs. Belanger
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
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Calling hours
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605
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Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605
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