Fred Ray Cherry

Fred R. Cherry, 85, of Independence, MO, passed away Friday, December 1, 2017.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Wednesday, December 6 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Services will be at 10 am, Thursday, December 7 at the chapel. Full Military Honors will follow at Mt. Washington Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Eastgate Christian Church, 4010 South River Boulevard, Independence, MO 64055.
Fred was born on December 18, 1931, in Altoona, PA, the son of Raymond and Violet Mae (Craine) Cherry.
Fred served in the United States Air Force as an Electronics Technician for six years during the Korean Conflict. He had a career with the United States Government in Electronics that spanned over forty years with the Weather Service (NOAA) and on special projects with NASA, in preparation of landing on the moon. He and his family lived in IL, HI, AZ, LA, MI, and MO during his career. Fred was also a reserve Police Officer in Slidell, LA and the Independence Police Department for 21 years, attaining the rank of Captain.
Fred was united in marriage to Grace Wittmer Cherry on September 1, 1951 and they celebrated over 66 years of marriage. Together they raised two sons, Donald “Don” and Wayne and one daughter, Linda.
Fred was adventurous and accomplished many things during his life. He was an amateur radio operator, earned his Private Pilot License, and became a certified scuba divemaster in which he enjoyed diving in the Caribbean. He enjoyed hunting, fishing in Canada, and most of all, spending time with his family and friends at his farm, “Cedar Oaks” near Pomme de Terre Lake.
Fred was a longtime member of Eastgate Christian Church in Independence where he sang in the choir and volunteered in many services.
Fred is survived by his wife, Grace Cherry of the home; daughter Linda Goff and husband Jeffrey of Lee’s Summit; daughter-in-law, Annetta Cherry of Kansas City; grandchildren Ryan Cherry and wife Tabbie of Blue Springs; Kyle Cherry of Independence, Alex and Madison Goff of Lee’s Summit; great-grandchildren, and other close family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his two loving sons; and brothers Clair and Glenn Cherry.
Fred lived life to its fullest. Fred’s proudest moments were becoming a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His devotion to family, firm belief in God, sense of humor, and willingness to help others will be dearly missed by his family and friends and he will forever live in our hearts.