Fred E. Bentley's Obituary
“Finer than frog hair split five ways!” Fred would say when asked how he was doing, and we believe, if asked today, this is what he would say. His "Fred-isms" kept us smiling.
Fred E Bentley, our funny, kind, compassionate, loving and generous husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, friend and hero passed away peacefully in his home in Syracuse on August 23, 2024, with his adoring wife by his side.
Fred was born in Bridgeport, Ne on July 8th, 1942, to Helen and Junior Bentley. He grew up in Garden County NE, graduating from High School in 1960 and enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1961. Fred married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Brune in 1965. They had two sons. Fred had a successful career as an airplane mechanic, Flight Engineer, and in the USAF Reserves at HAFB until he retired in 2001. Fred liked hunting, fishing, boating, golf, a good laugh, shooting the sh*t, a good whiskey, a soft Hawaiian shirt, comfy shoes and loved a cold beer with friends and family. Fred enjoyed trapshooting and was a dedicated lifetime member of the Golden Spike Gun club.
Fred is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara; his son: Mark of Clearfield; his son Jeff (Toni) of Syracuse; his grandchildren: Ashley Shelton, Kelley Ledesma (Chris), Sarah, and Colton; Great Grandchildren: Liam, and Emmy. Fred is also survived by his brother Don Bentley (Peg) of Oshkosh NE; his sister Diana Fetters of Oshkosh NE; sister-in-law DeeAnn of FL; many nieces, nephews and extended family; and honorary son, Chris Reid (Tiffany) of Syracuse UT.
Fred is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Rod and Duane, and sister Linda Dormann, niece Susie Rouse and nephew Scott Fetters.
A private memorial will be held at a later date.
Please share your condolences, stories, photos or videos, and Fred-isms with the family at www.premierfuneral.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Fred?
What’s a lesson you learned from Fred?
Share a story where Fred's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Fred you’ll never forget.
How did Fred make you smile?