Fred Foss

Frederick Vincent Foss, 61, born July 7, 1946 in Sugar Land to Theresa Niscavits Foss and Lee Roy Foss, departed this life on Jan. 4, 2008, after a long and courageous struggle after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury two or more years ago.

Fred grew up in Houston, graduating from St. Thomas High School in 1964. Fred was given his first guitar at age 13 by his parents and was a very accomplished guitarist during his life, playing in bands with his cousins and friends in his younger years. Fred was in the retail music business and taught guitar lessons in Houston for 20 years. During this time he was in the U.S. Army Reserves serving from 1970- 1976. In 1976, Fred graduated from the University of Houston with a BBA degree.

In 1986, at age 40, Fred changed careers and became an Allstate Insurance Agent in Wharton for 20 years. Fred worked very hard building up his business and had many loyal customers.

During this transition period of his life, he met his future wife, Emily Webster, in Houston at a Country and Western dance club where they were dance partners. Fred and Emily were married Nov. 21, 1987 in Wharton. During the first 12-14 years of their marriage, Fred and Emily traveled to many places, including Montreal, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Singapore, Munich and many places in the U.S., including Seattle, Boston, Orlando and Las Vegas.

Throughout his life the love he had of music, his guitars, and all animals, especially his beloved pet cats and dogs were known to all who knew him. Fred was a very loving, caring, compassionate and loyal person and will be greatly missed by his devoted and loving wife, sisters, family and friends. Fred touched many lives. The family wants to thank all of the caregivers, nurses, doctors and therapists that helped Fred over the last two plus years.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; nephew, Kevin Lee Hines; and many aunts and uncles.

Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Emily W. Foss of Wharton; sisters, Kathy Hines and husband James, and Cynthia Wendel and husband Larry, all of Glen Flora; nephew, Jimmy Hines of Glen Flora and Randy Hines of Houston.

A memorial service in celebration of Fred's life will be held on Saturday Jan. 12 at 11 a.m. in the chapel of the Wharton Funeral Home.

In lieu of usual remembrances, the family requests donations to be made in Fred's memory to the Brain Injury Association of America, 1608 Spring Hill Road, Suite 110, Vienna, VA 22182.

Funeral services are under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home.