Thomas M. Fredricksen

Thomas Morton Fredricksen, 82, of Laurel, NE passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.  A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church in Laurel.  A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church; with Pastor Charity Potter officiating. Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.  Arrangements are under the direction of Munderloh-Smith Funeral Home in Wakefield, NE.  

Tom was born on August 2, 1940, in Omaha, NE to Morton and Florence Fredricksen. After high school, Tom fulfilled a lifelong dream and started farming.  In December 1961 he joined the Army Reserves and was stationed in St. Louis, MO.  Two years later he met and married Shirley Mattes on March 23, 1963.  This March they celebrated 60 years of marriage holding true to their vows … for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.  To this union the couple had four children: Julie, Shelly, Andy, and Jon.  

Tom was an active member in the Masonic Lodge, VFW, and a former school board member.  He was also a faithful and active member of the United Presbyterian Church.  He taught the High School Sunday School for years, was an elder and a member of the church’s session holding office as the President.  

His passion included farming, livestock, spending time with his family and enjoying his 4 children, 6 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.  He was also a devoted Husker fan never missing a Football or Volleyball game.  He held fast to the hope that NE Football would one day be #1 again.

Tom is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughters, Julie Hart of Laurel, Shelly (Brad) Rath of Laurel; son, Jon (Jean) Fredricksen of Laurel;  6 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and sister, Marcia (Jim) Lipp.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Morton and Florence; son, Andrew Fredricksen; son-in-law, Dennis Hart; and great-grandson, Wyatt Hart.