Frederick Harrison Nicewonder

Frederick (Fred) Harrison Nicewonder, 96, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, on January 1, 1927, he was the son of the late Hubert Estol and Anna Doyle Nicewonder. Preceding Fred in death were his siblings: brothers, Edward (Lois) Nicewander of Portage, Ind.; Dennis (Joanne) Nicewander of Boca Raton, Fla.; Richard (Laura) Nicewonder of Redford, Mi.; Eugene (Geneva) Nicewonder of Beckley, W.Va.; and sisters, Lucille Berry of Portage, Ind.; and Wilda (Billie) Martin of Lawrenceburg, Ky. Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Elsie Darlene Nicewonder; son, Randy G. Nicewonder and his wife, Rhonda, of Peterstown, W.Va.; son, Steven G. Nicewonder and his wife, Suzanne, of Salem, Va.; and grandchildren, Bryan Nicewonder of Salem, Va., Avalon (Dee) Nicewonder of Denver, Colo., and Scotty Nicewonder of Richmond, Va. Fred retired in 1987 as Civil Engineer for the Norfolk & Western Railroad after 40 years of service. He was a high school graduate, earned an Associate Degree in Engineering and served in World War II as Sergeant in the 366th Headquarters Squadron 4th Fighter group in the Army of the United States, in support of the U.S. Air Force. Fred was an active member of Grandin Court Baptist Church in Roanoke, Va., serving in the Choir, as Sunday School teacher, and as Chairperson for the Grounds Committee for many years. He loved his family, golf, and country music, along with engaging in lively discussions on many topics. He was a joke teller, a good companion to many, and enjoyed a strong social life alongside his wife for many of their years in Roanoke. He was loved by his family, and cared deeply for his wife, sons, and grandchildren, who brightened up even his last days. A private family graveside service will be conducted at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens (Roanoke, Va.), with Pastor Kevin Meadows officiating. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the many doctors, nurses, therapists, and personal caregivers for their support and care during our time of need. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Peterstown United Methodist Church Food Pantry (PUMC Food Pantry; PO Box 423; Peterstown, W.Va., 24963). Arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Salem, Va.. Service Details. Interment Location Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens Address 5737 Airport Road Roanoke, VA 24012