Frederic Hugh Lair

Frederic Hugh Lair, age 96, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the Grandwood Assisted Living Center in Grove, Oklahoma. Born on December 15, 1929, in Bricelyn, Minnesota, he lived a long and meaningful life marked by steadfast dedication to his work, his family, his faith, and his community.

Fred devoted his professional career to the railroad, working as a clerk for the ICG Railroad. His work was valued and respected, reflecting his reliability, precision, and strong sense of responsibility. In addition to his career, Frederic proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, an experience that remained a lasting source of pride throughout his life.

Fred found joy in a variety of pursuits. He loved woodworking, an outlet for his creativity and patience, and he greatly enjoyed playing card games—especially bridge and pitch—where he relished both the challenge and the camaraderie. In retirement, he embraced lifelong learning with enthusiasm, most notably taking piano lessons, an accomplishment he was especially proud of.

Faith was an important part of Frederic’s life. He was a faithful member of the Grove Church of Christ, where he found spiritual fellowship and community.

Family meant the world to him. He is survived by his three devoted sons: Tom Lair of Mason City, Iowa; Jeff Lair and his wife Patty of Billings, Montana; and Paul Lair and his wife Lesli of Channahon, Illinois. He was also a loving brother to Patty Jones of Bloomington, Minnesota. Fred is fondly remembered by his nine grandchildren—Jennifer Sannon and J.T., Michelle Cattnach and Jake, Brian Lair and Tara, Nicole Trottier and Joey, Stephanie Redding and Jeff, Kyle Lair and Bri, Adam Lair and Morgan, Brittany Lawson and J.C., and Brooke Krewdow and Adam—and by his twenty-one great-grandchildren, with one more joyfully expected.

Frederic was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Virgil and Berdell Sampson Lair; his treasured wife, Janet Lair, who passed away in 2017; and three siblings, Virginia Grouette, Mary Ann Warnke, and John Lair. Their memories remain forever etched in the hearts of those who loved him.

Visitation will be held on April 15, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Worley-Luginbuel Funeral Home, 711 S. Main Street, Grove, Oklahoma. A funeral service will follow on April 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM, at the Grove Church of Christ, 1001 S. Grand Street, Grove, Oklahoma. Fred will be laid to rest in Olympus Cemetery, Grove, Oklahoma.

Frederic Hugh Lair’s life was a testament to dedication, faith, love, and the pursuit of lifelong learning. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the skills he passed down, and the quiet strength and warmth he brought to his family and community. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.