Harold Frederick Brothers, Jr.

August 12, 1944 ~ September 27, 2025

Harold Frederick Brothers, Jr., lovingly known as Fred or Freddie to all that knew him, passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the age of 81, in Winter Haven, Florida.  He was born on August 12, 1944 in South Bend, Indiana at Memorial Hospital, and grew up in South Bend where he attended South Bend Central High School.

On April 10, 1965, Fred married the love of his life, Mary Rhodes.  Together, they shared 60 years of devotion, raising their family first in Granger, Indiana and later retiring to Winter Haven, Florida in November of 1977, where they built a wonderful life surrounded by friends, sunshine and Florida sunsets.

Fred was drafted into the United States Army in November of 1966 and honorably served until his discharge in October of 1968.  Stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany, he proudly earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Driver Badge, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Sharpshooter Badge for rifle M-14.  While in Germany, Fred and Mary welcomed their first two sons, Larry and Gary.

After his military service, Fred began a 30-year career as a local city route truck driver with Shippers Dispatch and Preston Trucking Company.  His dedication and safe driving record earned him induction into Preston Trucking’s Million Mile Club.  Fred was a proud member of the Teamsters throughout his career.

Fred enjoyed life to the fullest.  He loved golfing on the course where he lived, fishing the Chain-O-Lakes from his bass boat, and volunteering with the Bass Federation Championship.  He and Mary could often be found taking golf court rides together at sunset, soaking in the beauty of Florida evenings.  Known for his humor and good-natured orneriness, Fred treasured time spent with friend and family above all else.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his sister, Judy Logan; his sons, Larry (Kimberly) Brothers and Terry (Melissa) Brothers; grandchildren, Derrick Brothers, Allison Crocker, Kyle Brothers, and Peyton Brothers; great-grandchildren, Briar Parrott, Cameron Crocker, Bear Brothers, and Kendall Crocker; and his faithful puppy, Pistol Penny.  Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Frederick Brothers, Sr. and Evelyn Brothers; his son, Gary Brothers; and his beloved dog, Buffy.

Fred leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, service and family devotion.  He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Fred’s memory may be donated to the Humane Society of Polk County.

A military honors graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Southlawn Cemetery, 61300 U.S. 31 South, South Bend, IN.  A gathering for family and friends will follow, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the VFW Post 360, 1307 E. Jefferson Blvd., Mishawaka, IN. 

10/11/2025 djb

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Harold-BrothersJr