Berlin – “Fred” Knuetter, Sr. also known in his younger days by his friends as “KingFish,” passed away at the age of 86 on April 8th, 2024. He was born in Berlin, NY on June 15th, 1937 to Harriet and William Knuetter, Sr.
Fred lived his entire life in Berlin, NY; he loved to meet people and learn about their lives. He enjoyed the company and conversation with many friends that he would drop by and visit with. In the last couple of years, Fred appreciated the friends that would stop by to see him at home as well. Fred worked for the State of New York, retiring from the Construction Trade, and then worked various other jobs after retiring from the State of New York. He also processed and sold firewood locally and always had to be working. In his local travels, Fred would often barter and trade for items and attend local auctions; many of his acquisitions became his lifetime of treasures, as you never know when you’ll need something. Fred was known for his deal-making abilities when he wanted to buy something. He never paid full price. His hobbies were working, going to auctions, and visiting his son Fred’s woodlot sites to watch him work on getting wood out. Most recently, Fred enjoyed watching the new overpass in Petersburgh being built, and spent many days watching the workers build it. Fred had a few makeshift workshop areas around his property; he would tinker on fixing saws and fabricated other things that he gave away such as cutting boards.
Fred is predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Katheryn, his eldest son, Fred (Teresa) Knuetter, Jr., brothers: Joseph (Jean) Carr, William (Phyllis) Knuetter, Sisters: Thelma (Ron) Brock and Lois (Tobe) Goodermote and their extended families. He leaves behind his daughter, Vickie Lawrence and grandchildren: Jarred (Amanda) Lawrence, great-granddaughter Emily Lawrence of Homer, Alaska, Ashley (Ryan) Lawrence-Urice of North Carolina, and son Michael Knuetter of Berlin. He also leaves behind he and Kay’s beloved wildcat named Duke, but who only answered to his evolved and earned namesake of Badcat when Kay or others would call him. Badcat will be moving to live with Fred’s daughter, Vickie.
At Fred’s request, there will be no formal funeral service; instead there will be a private family graveside service held on April 25th, 2024 at 10 am, at the Center Berlin Cemetery, Berlin, NY. In lieu of Flowers, should you wish to make a contribution in Fred’s memory, please contribute to any local animal rescue. Both Fred and Kay loved their rescued pets and would encourage you to save a pet’s life via sponsoring an adoption or donating to a shelter near you.
Final arrangements were managed by the Thomas M. Barber Funeral Home (Parker Brothers Memorial Funeral Home). Condolence book and memorial page at parkerbrosmemorial.com.
