Obituary for Fred Spellman

Fred Spellman

November 27, 1931 – March 11, 2020

Fred George Spellman, 88, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, passed away on March 11, 2020, in Oklahoma City. Rosary will be held at 7:00 PM, Friday, March 13, 2020, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, March 14, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with Father Carson Krittenbrink officiating. Interment will follow at the Alva City Cemetery, Alva, Oklahoma. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home and Crematory.

Fred was born on November 27, 1931 in Alva, OK, to Fred Braxton Hollingsworth and Bea (Hollen) Spellman. Fred graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1956 and became a Naval Aviator. He married Eileen Mueller in Memphis, Tennessee, on June 20, 1959. Later, Fred received a Master Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Post Graduate Academy in Monterey, California. Fred was a combat veteran with over 200 missions. Fred retired as a Commander in December 1981, after proudly serving his country for 30 years. Fred was actively involved with promoting the US Naval Academy by helping those interested in attending with application and preparation.

Fred was very active in the Boy Scouts of America. He started as a Webelos Leader. When his son’s Scout troop needed an adult leader he stepped in and became the Scout Master. Fred was a Scout Master for many troops over the course of 40 plus years. He was heavily involved in leader training, and the Catholic Scouting program during his scouting career. Fred earned many high honors and awards as a Scout leader. He loved the outdoors, backpacking, and camping with the Scouts. He lead dozens of treks to Philmont, a high-adventure Boy Scout Camp in New Mexico. Fred was a mentor to Eagle Scouts and Adult Scout leaders. He was the ultimate example of living and following the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Fred loved God and was faithful to the Church. He lived a life of service to others including serving his church in many ways. He shared his love of sailing with his family. For many years, Fred and Eileen were active Square Dancers.

Fred leaves behind his wife, Eileen; son, Fred M. Spellman and his wife, Nicole; daughter, Kathleen Rubin and her husband, Jeff; daughter-in-law, Rachel Spellman; grandchildren, Carter, Sarah, Stephanie, and Andrew.

He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Spellman, who died in 2001; his parents, Fred and Bea, and a sister, Patricia Ann Spellman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions (time, talent, resources) may be made to the local Boy Scout Troop of your choice. All Scouts, past and present, are encouraged to wear their Scout uniforms. Members of the military are also encouraged to wear their uniforms.

Source: Trout Funeral Home