SPRINGFIELD, IL – Fred E. Graeper, 99, passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2019, at Memorial Medical Center.

He was born in Youngstown, Ohio on December 3, 1919, to Albert and Clara (Landorf) Graeper. He married Olive M. Haven on May 26, 1944. He was preceded in death by his wife, Olive; daughter, Nancy A. Graeper and brother, Howard A. Graeper.

Fred was a US Army Air Corps veteran serving in WWII. He retired from Northern Illinois Gas Company after 40 years of service. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Kankakee. He enjoyed reading, especially about history. He collected pocket knives and enjoyed nature, animals and gardening.

He is survived by his son, Jim (Linda) Graeper; daughter, Paula (Dean) Weinberg; and grandson, Michael.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Camp Butler National Cemetery.