Fred Randolph Caress Jr, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025. Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Fred spent his winters in Port St. Lucie, Florida, enjoying the sunshine and his well-earned retirement.
A proud Navy veteran, he was aboard the USS Hornbill Minesweeper during the Korean War. Fred embodied dedication, integrity, and hard work throughout his life. From his early days as an ironworker to becoming a successful businessman and Owner of Caress-Weber Construction, Fred was widely respected in his field and admired by many. He designed many extravagant commercial builds you see to this day until he retired in 2015. His strong work ethic and leadership left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Fred was a devoted Shriner, a Jester, and was also a proud member of the Concord Village Lions Club, and Crestwood Elks Lodge 2503. He was honorably on the Board of Directors at Shriners Hospital for Children. He had a deep love for golfing, classic cars, boating, fishing, and spending quality time with his friends and family. Whether he was enjoying a Perfect Rob Roy and a cigar at cocktail hour and telling jokes or sharing stories of the past, “Freddy” brought warmth, humor, and wisdom to every moment.
Fred is survived by his loving wife, Doris Caress (Weber); his children, Fred Randolph Caress III and Deborah Seebold (Tim Seebold); and his grandchildren, Frederick Randolph Caress IV, Brooke Elizabeth Caress, Megan Alexandria Hardt (Ryan Hardt), and Gabriel Asher Caress. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Nayvie Hensley, Everly Hensley, Lennon Hardt, and Lincoln Hardt. He was an uncle and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nelva Louise Caress and Frederick Randolph Caress Sr.
SERVICES: Visitation Tuesday, June 24, 3:00 – 9:00 p.m. Funeral from Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road St. Louis, Missouri 63129) on Wednesday, June 25, 11:15 a.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. All who knew and loved Fred are welcome to attend a luncheon at Sunset Country Club and celebrate the life of a truly extraordinary man. Special thanks to his beloved caregivers; Hamida, Mediha, and Randy. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Shriners Hospital of St. Louis or Concord Village Lions Club.
Grandpa Boat will be so missed. He was one of the smartest, hardest working, honest and respectful men I’ve ever met in my life. He loved his family so much and cared for us in every way possible. I am who I am today because of the man he is; a true leader, amazing friend, an incredible grandfather- someone I will forever look up to. I love you so much. May you rest in peace ❤️ until we meet again. XOXO, with so much love, your granddaughter Brookie