Frederick A. Smock

West Brookfield - Frederick A. Smock, 76, died on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at his home.

He leaves his sister, Elizabeth A. Sylvester and her husband Frederick of Orange; three nieces, Sarah Garcia, Angela Alex and Kari Haley; one nephew, John Sylvester and seven great nieces and nephews.  He was born in Neptune, NJ son of the late Rev. Harold D. and Florence J. (Knowlton) Smock and grew up in South Hadley and later lived in Athol before moving to West Brookfield in 1973. 

Fred was a 1960 graduate of South Hadley High School, and graduated from broadcasting school in Springfield.  He worked at WCAT in Athol, and later earned his Associate Degree from Mount Wachusett Community College.  Fred was a News Reporter for 35 years for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, before retiring in 2006.

Mr. Smock was a United States Army Veteran of the Vietnam War, and was a member of the George Whitefield United Methodist Church in West Brookfield.

Fred had a great sense of humor, who loved photography, family cookouts and especially traveling around camping in his camper.  He was very active in the local Baypath Chapter #114 of the North American Family Campers Association in Spencer.  Fred also enjoyed collecting numerous fire related items, replicas of fire apparatus, and was an avid railroad buff.  He was sweet, generous, and kind, and will be greatly missed by his family. 

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held for Fred on Friday, September 15, 2017 at 2:00 PM in Pine Grove Cemetery in West Brookfield, where all are welcome to attend. There are no calling hours, and everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery.  The George Whitefield Methodist Church will host a reception following the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to George Whitefield United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 576, West Brookfield, MA 01585.  Varnum Funeral Home, Inc., 43 East Main St., West Brookfield is assisting his family with arrangements.

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