Published in the January 29, 2018 edition.
WAKEFIELD — Frederick Munroe, 96, a longtime resident of Wakefield, passed away peacefully at Woodbriar Health Center in Wilmington on Friday, January 26, 2018.
Fred was born in Jamaica Plain on January 27, 1921, one of four children of the late Margaret (Mulvenny) and Havelock Munroe. He was raised in Medford, graduated from Medford High School at age 17, and attended Bentley College for 3 years. Fred was also a World War II veteran who served stateside as a Private First Class Officer with the United States Army Air Corp from 1942 to 1946. On June 12, 1948, he married the love of his life, Beatrice M. Anderson and they shared 70 years of love, devotion and friendship. Fred and Beatrice were set up on a blind date by Fred’s younger sister, and together they started a family of three children while residing in Wakefield.
As his father had done before him and his own sons would do, Fred became an iron worker at an early age. Most importantly to Fred, his work as a foreman enabled him to support his family. It was a job that he took seriously, dedicating himself to the trade and earning the trust and respect of his colleagues. As a card carrying member at age 96, Fred was the oldest living member of the International Association of Iron Workers, Local #7.
Fred’s proudest accomplishment in life was his family. From an early age, he was mindful of looking after his parents. When Fred had his own family, he became the protector of his three children and later a dedicated and doting grandfather. Fred had a unique combination of humility and confidence that brought people together. Through his innate kindness, honesty, and love for easy laughter Fred was relied upon by many. He was patient and trustworthy, but always ready for a laugh with his dry sense of humor.
Outside of his family and his work, Fred remained a steadfast presence wherever he was. He was the oldest living member of the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, a place he called his spiritual home, and where he served as an usher and volunteer at countless events and bean suppers.
When not working, Fred took time to enjoy the outdoors through camping, fishing, and was a great swimmer and ice skater. For many years with his young family, he enjoyed camping at Lakeside Pines in Bridgeton, Maine. He also enjoyed trips with church friends to the Canadian Rockies and Lake Louise. For many years, he and Beatrice enjoyed summer vacations on Cape Cod, and winter trips to Florida.
Above all, Fred’s dedication to family will be his lasting legacy. He was a source of great love, strength and reliability that was the foundation for future generations of his family. Fred’s quiet strength and willingness to help others will be deeply missed, but his dedication to “always do the right thing” will carry on with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Fred was the beloved husband of Beatrice M. (Anderson) Munroe with whom he shared nearly 70 years of marriage. Devoted father of Edward Munroe and his wife Marybeth of Eastport, Maine, Joanne Green and her husband Larry of Windham, N.H., and Paul Munroe and his wife Jacqueline of Wenham. Dear brother of the late Ruth Mudge, Frank Munroe, and Dorothy Boyle. Cherished grandfather of Edward Munroe, Mark Russell, Jennifer Valencia, Matthew Russell, Rae Munroe, Scott Munroe, Meredith Munroe, and Margaret Munroe. Also survived by 10 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 9:30-11 a.m., followed by his funeral service celebrated at 11 a.m. For online tribute, or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
