Fredrick E. Winters, 81, passed away on Nov. 1, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him dearly and memories that will last a lifetime. Born in Dover, New Jersey, and raised in Marcella, Fred was a hardworking, independent man who lived life his own way. He had a personality all his own, a great sense of humor, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He took pride in everything he did, but his greatest pride and joy was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved his family more than words could say.
Fred shared 56 years of marriage with his wife, Patricia M. (Harrison) Winters. He was a proud father to his daughter, Shannon M. (Winters) Safford, and her husband, Thomas E. Safford Jr. He was a loving grandfather to Victoria Safford and Cassandra (Safford) Carr and her husband, Brandon, and a proud great-grandfather to Owen Carr.
Fred was a hardworking and independent man who wore many hats throughout his life. He spent years working as a mason before eventually pursuing his passion for trucking. He went on to become an owner-operator and proudly owned and operated his own trucking business, Winters Trucking, prior to retirement. He took great pride in his Peterbilt and the trucking business he built.
When he wasn’t working, Fred enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, especially his love of old cars and trucks and spending time out on his tractor. He took pride in the things he did and the life he built. He was also someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand, never hesitating to help someone who needed it.
Fred had a personality all his own and a sense of humor that those who knew him will never forget. There was never any question about how much he loved his family. He was their biggest supporter and cheerleader and took tremendous pride in their lives and accomplishments. His family brought him great joy, and it showed in the way his face lit up when they were around.
Fred is survived by his wife Pat, his daughter Shannon, and her husband Tom; his granddaughters Toria and Cassie, and Cassie’s husband Brandon; his great-grandson Owen; his sister Gail Crane, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, V. Fred and Shirley Winters, and his sister Jacqueline Stickle.
Fred leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, stories, and a family who will forever cherish the love and support he gave them. His presence will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught, the kindness he showed, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Calling hours will be held Monday, Nov. 9, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by a brief time of remembrance at 1, all at the Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock.
In lieu of flowers consider a donation to Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Suite 1, Oneonta, NY 13820, or to Trout Creek Volunteer Fire Co., 8695 County Hwy. 27, Trout Creek, NY 13839, or to the Delaware Valley Humane Society, 17420 County Hwy 23, Sidney, NY 13838, or to the Hancock Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 816, Hancock, NY 13783.
Arrangements by Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock, NY.
