Fred A. Schwake

Fred A. Schwake, 71, formerly of Bettendorf, Iowa, died Thursday, November 29, 2007 at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, Davenport after a long struggle with diabetes.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Bettendorf. Visitation will be held from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Sunday at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home, Bettendorf. Burial will be in Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Fred was born June 4, 1936 in Riceville, Iowa, the son of Fred & Grace (Cable) Schwake. He was united in marriage to Matilda “Hilda” Garside on January 25, 1958 in Huyton, England. She preceded him in death on April 9, 1998.
He entered the United States Air Force in 1956 and was honorably discharged in 1960.
Fred had been employed as a heavy equipment operator for Valley Construction and later for Murphy Brothers. He was later self-employed for many years. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting and traveling. He assisted with Pleasant Valley Little League for several years and served as president for one year. His memberships included the Quad-City Bass Club and he was a lifetime member of Local 150 Operating Engineers Union. Fred had a special bond with his family, especially his grandchildren who were very dear to him.
Those left to honor his memory include his daughter, Julie Reed, of Colona, Illinois; his son and daughter-in-law, Neal & Annie Schwake, of LeClaire, Iowa; his grandchildren, Christopher and Elizabeth; his sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn & Merle Worple, of Elma, Iowa; his brother and sister-in-law, Eugene & Bonnie Schwake, of Waterville, Minnesota; and several nieces and nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his wife, Hilda; his parents; and his son-in-law, James.