Fred Spain

Fred Wilson Spain, Jr., 77, passed away on July 25, 2023, after a brief illness.

He was born on April 15, 1946, to Fred and Undine Spain.

Fred graduated from Cleveland High School in 1964 and went on to earn a Bachelors of Accountancy from University of Mississippi. He started his career working for an accounting firm in Memphis and went on to work in the family business, Spain, Inc.

Fred was an entrepreneur and a successful small business owner for most of his life.  Many people will remember his local TV commercials for his "Fred Shed" business starring his beloved dog Moses.  

Fred is survived by his wife of 37 years, Joy Morgan Spain and his 3 step daughters, Gigi (Matt) McMurray, Jere (Paul) Myers, and Jodi (Todd) Ervin along with 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild, as well as numerous cousins.

Fred is preceded in death by Fred Spain, Sr. and Undine Spain.

Fred married Joy on December 25, 1985, and was a step father to her 3 children, Gigi, Jere, and Jodi.

Fred was best known for his unique approach to life. In his younger years, he traveled the world. His favorite port was Malta. He returned to Cleveland and built his house with his own hands.  His new home included soaring vaulted ceilings, a sunken living room and legendary swinging dinette set. He and Joy were married in front of the hearth in their home. 

Fred had a passion for cars and airplanes. He was a pilot, loved clocking hours in the air in his earlier days and was in the process of building his own airplane for many years. He journeyed to Oshkosh, WI, yearly for the largest air show in the world while he was able and made many life long friends whom he cherished. Fred had a Cobra he was restoring, and he could entertain his friends for hours regaling them with information about that project.

Anyone who knew Fred knew how much he loved a good meal. He was an avid camper and loved starting new projects and spending time with his friends. Something that marked Fred's life was his loyalty and his capacity for having lifelong friends. 

Having lived in Cleveland most of his life, Fred was active in the community that he loved. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Cleveland, along with many other organizations throughout his life. 

Visitation for Fred will be Saturday, July 29, 2023, 1:00-2:00pm with a memorial service immediately following.