Frederick John Liedke Jr.

With his family holding his hand, Fred Liedke passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on January 20, 1943, he filled every room with laughter, warmth, and music. The son of the late Gertrude (Lendhart) and Frederick John Liedke, Sr., he is survived by his wife of 62 years Louise (Harley) Liedke, and two children, Catheryn (Joseph) Franco of Hope Valley, RI, and Jack Liedke of Delray Beach, FL. He is the brother of Charles (Francis) Liedke and leaves behind numerous cousins and extended family. Fred was immensely proud of his four grandchildren, Jillian and Joseph Franco, and Jacob and Matthew Liedke. He never missed a chance to brag about them to anyone who would listen. After graduating from Hamden High School, Fred earned a bachelor's degree in applied mathematics from High Point University, where he joined Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. His career as a mechanical engineer began at the family business, L. R. Brown Manufacturing, and continued at Camco Fittings and Ideal Forging. He took pride in mentoring young engineers through an internship program he founded with Rensselaer Institute of Technology. Service was a family legacy and became a part of his life as well. He was a Third Degree Mason and former member of the Shriners Pyramid Temple Motor Patrol, delighting parade-goers throughout New England in his tiny red T-Bird. Fred was especially proud of his work with the Northford Volunteer Fire Department Company 2, where he supported the Junior Firefighters Program. A man of many passions, he was an FCC licensed ham operator and member of the Meriden Amateur Radio Club. Fred was not only a radio enthusiast, but a "fix-it" wizard, and someone who could never resist tinkering with electronics. In addition, he was an avid NASCAR fan, often recalling his trips to Daytona to watch the 500. In recent years, he became a devoted supporter of UConn Women's Basketball. The Connecticut shoreline was always a second home. In his youth, he spent summers camping with his family at Hammonasset Beach, becoming an expert water-skier. He carried on the camping tradition with his own children and grandchildren. Fred loved the sea and owned several boats throughout his life, often taking family and friends out on Long Island Sound for adventures, exploring the Thimble Islands, and making memories as a member of the Indian Neck Yacht Club in Branford. From an early age, his humor and larger-than-life personality made him the life of the party. In his close-knit neighborhood, he was a legend-kids will forever remember his sharp whistle calling everyone home when the streetlights came on. Above all, Fred will be remembered for his extraordinary musical gifts. After beginning with accordion lessons as a boy, he went on to teach himself piano and guitar. With perfect pitch, he could play nearly any song after hearing it once. Growing up in a large extended family, Fred is remembered fondly by dozens of cousins for his singing and accordion playing at holidays and celebrations. His music filled countless gatherings, bringing joy and togetherness to neighborhood block parties. Family and friends will treasure those moments and memories for years to come. Calling hours will be on Sunday, August 24th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a brief service to follow at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT. Burial will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, online, or at: JDRF, PO Box 37920, Boone, IA, 50037-0920. Burial will be private at a later date.