Fredrick "Freddy" Ralph Sheesley

Fredrick “Freddy” Ralph Sheesley, 76, of Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, at Hays Medical Center surrounded by family.

He was born on December 30, 1948, in Colby, Kansas, to Fredrick H. and Ferne M. (Eaton) Sheesley. Freddy graduated from Grinnell High School in 1966, went on to Colby Community College, then transferred to Fort Hays State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1971—an experience that fueled his lifelong love for the outdoors and exploration, especially the geology digs of Northwest Kansas.

Throughout his life, Fred embraced many roles: dedicated district executive with the Boy Scouts of America, proud member of The Masonic Lodge, loyal FHSU alumnus, and small business owner. He owned and operated an American Family Insurance agency in Hays for six years and spent many early mornings delivering bread across western Kansas for Old Home Bread. Prior to retirement, he sold commercial vehicles for Chevrolet in the KC area.

Fred was a man of deep passion and kindness—a true sports enthusiast who faithfully cheered for the FHSU Tigers, Kansas City Chiefs, and KC Royals. He found peace in nature, whether it was camping, fishing, scouting, or simply enjoying a cigar on the deck. He had a servant’s heart, always ready with his trademark phrase, “I’d be glad to help.” Fred was known for his unwavering kindness—never speaking an unkind word about anyone.

His joy was in life’s simple pleasures: trout fishing in the Rockies, nights around a campfire under the stars telling stories, supporting family through small home projects, recalling college summers spent in McCartney Hall at Sternberg Museum in addition to Scout Camps Brown and Hansen where he served as a staff member in college and later became the camp director. Moreover, he loved sharing life stories and many laughs with his grandchildren.

Fred is survived by his children, Scott B. (Marlene) Sheesley of St. Joseph, MO, and Elodie J. Jones of Hays; sister, Roxann Sheesley Nelson of Grinnell, KS; five grandchildren, Madison (Matt) Nolte, Shawn Sheesley, Avery (Chase) Jones, Katie Sheesley, and Caleb Sheesley; and one great-grandchild, Miller Nolte; including many cherished extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jan Marie Sheesley; brother-in-law, Robert Nelson; and niece, Chelsie M. Nelson.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Celebration Community Church in Hays, KS. Family will receive guests and host a coffee bar 9:30 AM until service time. Burial will follow in Grinnell City Cemetery at 1 PM in Grinnell, KS.

Memorials are suggested to FHSU Foundation (to establish a Geology Scholarship) or Grinnell VFW Post 2864 and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.