Fred €Œtux†Neria

Fred returned to his heavenly home surrounded by his family on June 5, 2017. He touched so many lives in his 90 years on this earth. He is now surrounded by family and friends who have embraced him on the other side. He is cradling his newest great granddaughter as we speak before she journeys to this earth.

Born Nov. 1, 1926 to Antonio and Trinidad Neria in California. The family moved to Dinkeyville, UT where he spent his childhood. He graduated from Bingham High in 1945. Although he received a football scholarship to the U of U, he was unable to play as he was drafted into the military right out of high school. He served in the 2nd Armory, 425th Field Artillery, 82nd Calvary. He loved his country and always displayed a US flag. He worked at Kennecott Copper Mine for 44 years as a skilled boiler maker/welder/machinist. He was Union President of The International Machinist Association. He retired in 1986. He spent his retirement summers golfing with his Kennecott Tuesday Night League and any other chance he got with his buddies every other day of the week. He spent many winters bowling at Junction Bowling with his Kennecott league. He stayed very active and made many life-long friends that were dear to him. He loved the history of Bingham and always had a story to tell you. It didn't matter where he went, someone always knew Tux. Many of his Kennecott friends knew him as "The Big Indian." He never passed up a chance to arm wrestle, hold a baby, tell a joke, or orchestrate a prank.

He married the love of his life, Deon in 1974. They spent the next 43 years enjoying life and spending time with family and friends. His family never got tired of his unique humor and words, such as "hopingly" and "just a skoch." He was famous for his chicken mole and enchiladas. No one ever missed a family dinner if they knew Freddie was cooking. He spent many years adoring his grand babies and teaching them the simple pleasures of life.

He is survived by his wife Deon, daughters, Gina, Brenda and Josette, son Bruce, many grand and great grandchildren who were the world to him, as well as siblings: Kenny (Jonny), Agnes (Eluterio), Conrad (Florence), and Mary (Sal), and Pablo, as well as many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by: Parents, Antonio (Trinidad), brother Roger (Lupe), sister Pearl, sons Gary and Ronnie, daughters LaMon and Laurie.

Services will be held at Goff Mortuary, 8090 S. State St., Midvale. Viewing Sunday, June 11th 6-8:00 pm and services Monday, June 12th at 11:00 am (viewing one hour prior). Burial at Midvale City Cemetery following services. The family would like to thank the Valeo Home and Hospice team for their compassionate care.