Fred Dittmann

Fred M. Dittmann Jr., 77, a longtime resident of Lake Zurich, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 25, 2024. He was born on October 31, 1946 in Chicago to the late Fred Sr. and Verle Dittmann. Born and raised on the Northwest side of Chicago in the Portage Park area, Fred brought warmth, passion, and ingenuity to all aspects of his life.

Fred began his educational journey at St. Edward Grammar School and later graduated from Gordon Tech High School in 1964. His thirst for knowledge led him to Northern Illinois University, where he pursued his academic interests with fervor. In 1970, he proudly earned his Bachelor's degree in Geochemistry, followed by a Master's degree in the same field, establishing himself as a dedicated scholar and researcher.

Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Fred continued his academic pursuits, accumulating 98 hours towards a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics. Throughout his academic career, he displayed a remarkable commitment to learning and innovation, qualities that would define his life's work.

While attending Northern Illinois University, Fred met and fell in love with the love of his life, Gloria at a mixer. On November 26, 1969, they were united in marriage in Chicago. They made their home in DeKalb while Fred worked on his master's thesis. In 1970, they settled in Lake Zurich, where they raised their family. Together, they celebrated 54 beautiful years of marriage and were blessed with three children and further blessed with three grandchildren.

While he was working as a graduate teaching assistant, Fred was given the esteemed task of analyzing one of the original moon rocks. It was here he applied his expertise utilizing mass spectrometry to analyze and categorize their composition and relative age. His contributions to science were both significant and profound.

In 1971, Fred embarked on a new chapter as an educator at Kildeer/Countryside School, where he shared his passion for learning with generations of students. His dedication to teaching left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their own academic and intellectual aspirations.

Fred's journey was one of diverse interests and talents. A true scholar and innovator at heart, he briefly “shifted gears” to become a business owner, founding ElektroCycle and Municipal Industries. His lifelong personal passion for automotive mechanics culminated in the awarding of two U.S. patents for designing a reverse gear motorcycle transmission still finding practical application in various police departments and vehicle fleets worldwide, underscoring Fred's profound impact on the automotive industry.

Fred passionately resumed his teaching career in 1985 at the Technology Center of DuPage, where he proudly taught vocational education until his retirement in 2010. His unwavering dedication to his students and his profession earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

He was a tinkerer, builder, photographer, artist, and musician a true renaissance man. His love for motorcycles and freedom was matched only by his passion for adventure.

Fred found his main joy in retirement working on his house, where he poured his heart and soul into every project. From building room additions to hand-planing cedar planks and customizing stone-inlays with the visionary and artistic skill that reflected the way he saw the world around him, he approached each task with meticulous care and dedication to craftsmanship.

A teacher both inside and outside the classroom, Fred imparted invaluable life skills to his children, particularly in the realm of science, philosophy and automobile maintenance. His love for working with his hands extended to his willingness to lend a hand to neighbors in need, whether it be in vegetable gardening or any other endeavor where he could be useful.

He also had a profound love of nature and adventure and enjoyed hiking, camping, and traveling to new places. His zest for life and boundless curiosity enriched the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of exploration and discovery.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria; children, Robert (Kelly) Dittmann, Lauren (Chase Norton) Dittmann and Chrissy (Shawn) Terry; grandchildren, William Dittmann, Elise Norton and Shyanne Terry; his siblings, Nancy B. Dittmann and Steven C. Dittmann; his cherished canine companion, Noelle; and by many loving cousins, friends and students.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation for Fred will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024 from 3 PM until 7 PM with a Celebration of Life service beginning at 6 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Road., Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made

in the honor of Fred M. Dittmann, Jr., to the

Technology Center of DuPage, 301 S Swift Rd, Addison, IL 60101