Frederick Decorah

We are saddened to announce the passing of Frederick "Chief" Decorah of Baraboo, WI. Fred walked on June 23, 2023, at his home surrounded by loved ones.

Fred was born January 14, 1938, to Patrick and Eliza (Big Soldier) Decorah in Holmen, WI near Hunter's Bridge. He attended Neillsville Indian School and graduated from Holmen High School. Fred proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps touring in Korea. Upon returning home, he became a truck driver and drove all around the country, finally retiring from Baraboo Concrete after twenty-two years of service.

Anyone who knew Fred knew he was an avid sports fan of all types. While he enjoyed football, baseball, boxing, golf, and Nascar, nothing kept him more active than his favorite sport of "throwing shoes". Fred was a world champion horseshoe thrower and won many trophies and titles during his lifetime. No one could make a ringer look so easy as Fred could. But it wasn't just trophies he attained; he gained and treasured many friendships along the way with whom he kept in touch all these years.

Fred's fun-loving personality made him friends wherever he went. He had funny stories about his own life adventures that kept everyone around him entertained, and he loved sharing those stories around the card table. You knew you were accepted in his circle when you were given your own special nickname. He gave everyone a nickname. Fred was an excellent teammate, friendly neighbor, charming jokester, and a great friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Nancy, brothers Ralph, Orlando, and Raymond, and granddaughter Christi.

He is survived by his wife of nearly sixty years Karen (Fosgate) Decorah; stepchildren, Craig & Teresa Parchem, Sandy Parchem, and Kim Stebbins, all of Baraboo; his daughter Delores "Lori" Krause of Chippewa Valley; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews; and many other relatives and friends. He was loved by many and will be missed greatly.

Services will be held Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home with visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. with the funeral service at 11:00 followed by inurnment at Walnut Hill Cemetery with Military Honors. Condolences may be sent to the family atwww.redlin-ertzfuneral.com.