Fred Raymond Goetz, 65 of Kouts, IN, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, June 8, 2026. He was born November 24, 1960, in Chicago, IL, to the late Fred Raymond Goetz II and Sheryl (Hayward) Goetz. Fred graduated from Knox High School, and began his career with Local 150 Operating Engineers. When Certified Concrete sold to Smith Ready Mix, Fred went with and never looked back. He enjoyed every day of the past 30 years proudly working as an equipment manager for Smith Ready Mix. Fred also ran “Adult Decisions Bucking Bulls” with his wife, sisters and brothers-in-law, which allowed him to travel all over and meet new friends.
Outside of work, Fred could be found maintaining his yard, mowing grass, or hanging around the pool with his family. He looked forward to taking family trips and spending time with his beloved daughters and grandchildren. Fred also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and dreaming of fixing up his 1938 Ford Coupe. He was a hard worker and a jack of all trades who could eventually find a solution to any problem around the house. Being a jokester brought Fred great joy, laughter, and the nickname “Slick.” He was a caring and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed every day.
On June 30, 1984, at the Methodist Church in Hanna, IN, Fred married the love of his life, his “love bucket”, and his brown-eyed girl, Lisa Clarke, who survives, along with their daughters: Amanda (Alex) Leuck of Kouts, and Alison (Jacob) Clindaniel of Hanna; grandchildren: Masyn, Kendall, Kane, and Clarke; and siblings: Mary Ellen (Roger) Pendowski, Kari (Doug) Romine, James (Lynn) Goetz, and Kelly (Rod) Schroeder.
A private family celebration will be held in Fred’s honor at a later date.
GUESTBOOK
Sorry for your loss. Will be keeping all the family in our prayers. -Dennis & Debbie Galbreath
My heart goes out to the all American Goetz family. Fred was the only person who could provide constructive feedback and teach me the right way to do it, then send me pictures of his perfectly mowed lawn and polished Tahoe tailpipes. I had the privilege of working with him and while he certainly wasn’t afraid to chew my ass when I earned it, those moments usually came with lessons I will carry with me forever. His honesty, leadership, and ability to keep me on my toes will make a lasting impact. I will miss you dearly my friend. -Brian Dills
OMG so sorry to hear about Fred. -Thomas Sands
My wife Kimberly and I would like to extend my sincerest condolences to the Goetz family. Words are not enough in the face of such a cruel loss, but we hope that in time, you will find comfort in knowing Fred demonstrated a life well lived. To Lisa, in addition to the support of your family, please know that many of your extended friends, business associates and former coworkers are learning about Fred's passing and praying for you and your entire family. There are many who wish dearly we could help you in this terrible moment. Strength to you and eventually peace. -John McGrath
So very sorry for your loss, gone too soon, God has him now. -Patty Williams
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Fred. My husband, Floyd, reported to Fred at Smith's and thought so highly of him, reminding him much of his own dad. I had the pleasure of meeting Fred several time at work events, always finding him full of humor, laughter and quick wit. I know he will be missed by many. Thoughts and prayers to your family. -Floyd and Cindy Szuba
It’s going to be a sad time without you around. Hope your family gets through these tough times. You definitely are leaving a hole in a lot of people’s chests. -Justin LaPorte
Fred was a great man I’m so sorry for your loss. -Robert Cole
I am so heartbroken to hear about the passing of Fred. We worked side-by-side in the ready-mix business for over 20 years. He wasn't just a great co-worker; he was truly a great friend.My thoughts and prayers go out to his lovely wife Lisa and the entire family during this incredibly difficult time. Rest easy, Fred. Thank you for 20+ years of laughs and friendship. -Patrick Edwards
To you Fred, I feel God will welcome you with the warmest Embrace you've ever known. I also want to send Love and my sincerest condolences to the entire family. I will miss you greatly and thank you for these last 3 years at Smith. God Speed My Friend... -Jason Armalius
So sorry to hear about Fred, he was the nicest, silliest, good hearted guy in school. Always ready to lend a hand or tell me a joke. He worked for the co-op in school and sprayed fields, he always seemed to have " left over " spray he would put on my dad's soy bean fields for him. The last time I saw him was at our 20 year class reunion, him and my husband really hit it off, they drank way to many Coors Lights!! Hugs and prayers to everyone, and love to all. -Tonya Eskridge Grube
Lisa, John and I are so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. We are thinking of you and praying for you and your family. -John and Kristi Richards
My thoughts and prayers are with Fred and his entire family. We worked nearly three decades together helping build something worthy of hard work and dedication. I had a private respect for Fred. He carried a great responsibility to fix whatever problems arose and make it work. I know with certainty he will be missed by all. The Robertson family thanks you . And may gods forever grace be with your loved ones. Thank you Fred. -John Robertson
My sincere condolences to Lisa and your families and friends. May you find peace in the promise that life is everlasting. Hugs and prayers. -Susan Martin
We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Fred and wish to offer our deepest condolences to Lisa and family. We were friends and coworkers for thirty years. Heaven got them a great one. And the earth is a lesser place without him. He will be deeply missed. -Bernie and Irma Sosh
We are all so sad to hear about slick. Although I wasn't very close with him, I always appreciated how friendly and kind he was to me whenever we all were together. His warmth and welcoming nature left a lasting impression. Please accept our sincere condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family as you mourn and celebrate his life. May you find comfort in the memories you shared and strength in the love and support of those around you. He will be missed. -Tami & Dave
