Frederick William Bock

Frederick William Bock, a long-time resident of Barrington, Illinois, passed away on June 20, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on April 8, 1925 in Chicago to Frederick Paul and Charlotte Adeline (Limberger) Bock.

Fred proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was a member of the 767th Bomb Squad, 461st Bomb Squad, 15th Air Corps, and he flew in a crew plane called “Lucky Seven”. He was a radio operator/mechanic/gunner.

On July 23, 1949, Fred married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Drabick in Chicago. Their first home in Barrington, Illinois was built with the help of family and friends. They had seven children and were able to celebrate 56 years together before Shirley passed.

Always having a strong work ethic, Fred began his career as a paperboy, walking his routes at seven years old. He also worked with his father in his butcher shop. The various jobs that he held after serving in the Army included construction laborer, carpenter, and construction superintendent for Coath & Goss. He helped build many schools in the area as well as many of the other homes in his own neighborhood. When he retired from Coath & Goss in 1980, he became a tree farmer in Ironwood, Michigan (six months out of the year). On this property, Fred decided to plant hundreds of seedlings every year to replenish all the trees that he had used throughout his career in construction. He did this until he was 97 years old, even splitting his own wood with an axe for his wood burning stove.

Fred was an avid hunter of bears, deer, pheasants, elk, and moose. He was a dedicated fisherman and enjoyed teaching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to love fishing on McDonald Dam and Gile Flowage. He imparted his love of nature to family and friends. Being a voracious reader, Fred read many books, magazines, and several newspapers daily. He was a fantastic cook, especially known for his famous Spam casserole and farina with cherries. His meals were enjoyed by all. Having a passion for birds, Fred loved building them houses and feeding them year-round. He also had many dogs as beloved companions throughout his lifetime.

Fred was devoted to his family, had a strong faith in God, and taught all his children the value of a dollar. Known for his sparkling blue eyes and generous heart, he was a storyteller with an unbelievable imagination. He shared his life experiences and wisdom of 100 years with people of all ages. He had a great sense of humor and loved to play practical jokes. Living his life to the fullest kept him young in body, heart, and soul. God called you home, but a part of you will always be with us.

Fred is survived by his beloved children, Fred (Susan) Bock, Susan (the late Gerry) Burke, Edie (the late Joe) Misurelli, Eric (Glenna) Bock, John Bock, and Brian (Kelly) Bock; his adored 23 grandchildren; 32 cherished great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; and son-in-law, Jerry Kublank.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley Bock; daughter, Karen Kublank; parents, Frederick and Charlotte Bock; brothers, Wilton and Robert Bock; sister, Charlotte; and sons-in-law, Gerry Burke and Joe Misurelli.

A visitation for Fred will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025 Calvary Assembly of God, 5906 S Illinois Rte 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. There will be a memorial service celebrating Fred’s life from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. followed by a luncheon where stories and memories will be shared.