Fred G. Henry, the son of John Christopher and Velma Grace (Miller) Henry, born on January 20, 1936, in Oakland, Iowa, was a beloved member of the Oakland community. Fred died, October 18, 2024, at the Primrose Retirement Community in Council Bluffs, IA, at the age of 88 years, 8 months, and 29 days.

He spent his early years on a family farm near Oakland, a place rich with family history. Fred attended a one-room schoolhouse on the family farm, and later continued his education in Oakland, where he met his future wife, Joyce Maureen Kelsay. After graduating from high school, Fred pursued further education at Iowa State in Ames.

Fred and Joyce married on June 17, 1956, at the United Methodist Church in Oakland. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and partnership, both in life and in business. Fred co-founded the Henry Well Company with his father during a severe drought in 1956, a venture that would grow to serve communities across Iowa, Eastern Nebraska, and Northern Missouri.

Fred was a man of deep faith, dedicating his Sundays to worship at the United Methodist Church, where he actively participated in various committees. His love for his family was paramount, and he cherished every moment spent with them, whether at family celebrations or cheering on his children and grandchildren at their events.

Fred and Joyce shared a passion for travel, exploring the United States and Mexico in their motorhome. Fred's fearless spirit behind the wheel led them through many adventures, creating cherished memories and stories to share. He also had a profound love of farming and was very proud of the family's Heritage farm.

Fred is preceded in death by his wife Joyce of 60 years; his parents John and Velma Henry;  his sister Helen Sue and her husband Roy Williams; his wife's parents Curtis, Mildred and Nina Kelsay. His sister-in-law Helen and husband Jerry Scholtes; his brother-in-law Curt Kelsay.

Fred is survived by his children: Debbie Rollins and husband Paul of Oakland, IA; Fred S. Henry and wife Gayla of Oakland, IA; John Henry and wife Peggy of Plattsmouth, NE; Susie Hemphill and husband Dan of Gretna, NE. He leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren with one more, 'Baby Nugget,' expected in the spring of 2025. His sisters-in-law Fern Kelsay, Marilyn and husband Mike Hebing, brothers-in-law Delbert Kelsay and wife Pauline, Craig Kelsay and wife Rosie; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Fred's legacy of love and dedication to his family and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Oakland United Methodist Church in Oakland, IA. A visitation will take place on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 7:30 PM at the Oakland United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Oaklawn Cemetery at Oakland, Iowa.  A luncheon will follow the burial at the Oakland Community Building, 614 Dr. Van Zee Rd.   Memorials may be given to the Oakland United Methodist Church Building Fund.  Rieken Vieth Funeral Home in Oakland is assisting the family with arrangements.