Frederick Roy Clemens Jr.

Frederick Roy Clemens Jr., known as Fritz in his younger days, passed away on Sunday, November 26, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Peggy Clemens; and older sister, Ann Clemens Overton. Fred is survived by his wife, Sandra Elgland Clemens; younger sister, Susan (Bob) Palmer; nieces, Paige Overton, Allison Palmer Johnson; nephews, Drew Overton, Bob Palmer IV; and brother-in-law, Taylor Overton.

He graduated Ottawa Hills High School in 1958 and went on to attend Grand Rapids Junior College and Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL earning his bachelor’s degree. Fred was a proud veteran of the United States Navy. He served his country from 1963-1966, mostly on sea duty aboard USS Pickaway, an attack transport that carried troops to various locations in the Pacific and to landing sites in Vietnam. As Lt. Junior Grade, Fred oversaw small groups of landing craft that ferried troops and cargo between the ship and shore. After returning to civilian life, Fred graduated from Michigan State University with his master’s degree and went on to serve Forest Hills Public schools as a middle school teacher. During this time, he met his wife, Sandra, also a teacher within the school system.

Fred had a lifelong interest in aviation and was a longtime member of a local flying club. He enjoyed living on the Thornapple River, spending time at their lake cottage near Interlochen, and occasionally singing some Elvis tunes. Fred was a longtime resident of Grand Rapids having lots of friends who will miss him dearly.

Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49546, with visitation one hour prior. Interment Cascade Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions can be made to a charity of choice in Fred’s honor.