Obituaries

Frederic “Fred” Dennis Eby, age 68, of Rudyard, Michigan, died on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey, Michigan. He was born on January 2, 1958, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to John “Jack” Jr. and Wanda (Farrish) Eby.

Fred was a builder and contractor who specialized in beautiful woodworking. He spent much of his time in his woodshop, where he enjoyed creating picnic tables, custom signs, charcuterie boards, and other handmade pieces. Woodworking was a passion of his, and he took pride in the things he built.

Fred shared a wonderful life with his wife, Carol, whom he married on August 22, 2003. He made sure she always knew how much she meant to him, often reminding her, “You make me happy.” Their life together was filled with love, laughter, and many special memories.

Fred was a funny guy who was rarely seen without a smile. He had a sarcastic sense of humor and always seemed to have a joke or witty remark ready to share. He loved giving people a hard time in good fun and had a way of bringing laughter to those around him.

Outside of his woodshop, Fred enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially camping and riding the trails on his side-by-side. He also loved entertaining family and friends in his man cave and was known for putting on fabulous fish fries that brought everyone together.

Above all, Fred loved his family and absolutely adored his grandchildren. He treasured the time he spent with them and will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his humor, and the love he shared with his wife and family.

Fred is survived by his wife of twenty-three years, Carol; daughters, Brandy Jo (Adam) Ball and Crystal (Skip) Parish; sons, Dennis Eby, Justyn (Monica) Mayer, Jonathan (Somer) Mayer, Jeremy (Desiree) Mayer, Jordon (Amanda) Mayer; grandchildren, Lucus, Jeremiah (Annales), Chloe, Carson, Casen, Haydon, Lexi, Cierra, Chloe, Calab, Dallen, Alivia, Aniston, Bella, Ezra, Myla, Brimley, Sami, Gracie, Levi, and Ava; great-grandchildren, Mavrick, Easton, and Oliver; brothers, John (Brenda) Eby and Jim (Kori) Eby; and sister, Karen (Don) Stabile.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Jack; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 24549 S. M-129, Pickford, MI 49774. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:30 AM with a luncheon to follow.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.