The children of Frederick McMillen age 87, of Ames would like to invite you to a gathering of friends and family 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care 414 Lincoln Way to share a story about their Dad and your friend.

Frederick McMillen was born on Feb. 6, 1925 in Lexington, Mass. to Frederick and Bessie (Kittredge) McMillen. He grew up in Lexington where the Revolutionary War started. Captain John Parker said, "If they mean to have war, let it start here." It's where the first shot was heard around the world. He was very proud of the history that surrounded him.

Fred joined the navy when he was just 17, lying about his age in order to serve his country. He thought military food was terrible, and decided to apply for cooks and bakers school, winning a spot among the top 10 candidates who were allowed to choose where they would like to go for training. He chose Iowa State College's naval training school, upon completion of the course he was sent to Guadalcanal in the South Pacific aboard the LST247.

While in Ames, Fred met his future wife Neoma Bennett. They were married in 1945. After service, Fred bought a small grocery store (Malanders) in Campustown, which he owned and operated for four years before going into the home improvement business until his retirement.

Fred enjoyed stamp and coin collecting, fishing in Canada with the boys, boating, swimming, water skiing on Table Rock Lake, Nascar, Miller Lite, Hooters hot wings and pizza from Pagliai's Pizza. His motto was "Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you."

Fred will be be dearly missed by his daughter, Charlene (Roger) Mullin, of Huxley; son, Ron McMillen, of Ames; four grandchildren, Wade (Stephanie) Mullin, Chelsea McMillen, Nate Hostetter, and Zach Hostetter; three great grandchildren, Christina, Catelin and Wyatt Mullin; three nephews, Fred (Janet) Cramer, Derrick Kittredge, and Bob (Donna) McMillen; niece, Judy (Steve) Hayes; dear friend Mike Kurtz; his dog and best buddy, Aussie, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers, Norman, Ben, and Bob; and a sister, Fran.

A Celebration of Fred's life will be announced at a later date, and his ashes will be scattered at sea in a private family service.

Fred loved life and lived it with gusto. He often said, "You can sleep when you're dead." Sweet dreams, Freddie.

Online condolences may be sent to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com