Fred "Speed" Schwab, 85, Velva, died Monday, Aug. 6, 2012, in a Minot hospital.
Fred was born June 19, 1927, at rural Simcoe, the son of Florence (Burgess) Schwab. He was raised by his aunt and uncle, Pearl and Kent Burgess, and educated at Velva through the 11th grade. His family owned and operated the two theaters in Velva until 1946 and later the Dairy Queen until 1949, at which Fred assisted the family with the operation of these businesses.
Fred was united in marriage to Twilla Smebak on July 2, 1960, in Minot. They made their home in Velva throughout the years, where he was employed with Waterman Motors as a mechanic, working exclusively on Volkswagen vehicles for more than 26 years. He retired in 1985.
Fred's hobbies and interests included spending time in his garden, reading, visiting with friends and cars.
His loving family includes: his wife of 52 years, Twilla Schwab, Velva; sons, John (Dixie) Schwab, Dillsburg, Pa., and Bruce (Gail) Schwab, Sequim, Wash.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents; and his aunt and uncle, Pearl and Kent Burgess.
Celebration of Life service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012, at Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.
Interment: Velva Community Cemetery, Velva.
Visitation: Friday, Aug. 10, from noon until 5 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials: Are preferred to Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.
Those wishing to sign the online memorial register of share memories are invited to use the expressions of sympathy section at (www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com)
