EARLVILLE – Frederick E. Mende, 83, of Earlville, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024, at Allure of Mendota.

At Fred’s request, there will be no services.

Fred was born July 2, 1941, to Edward and Frances (Shifflette) Mende. He married Wilma Hall at the Ashton United Methodist Church on Aug. 3, 1975. 

Fred is survived by his wife, Wilma; special friend, Greg Delay; and numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Edward. 

Fred served in the U.S. Army for three years. He farmed his whole life. He also trucked grain and livestock for many years. He was very active in tractor pulling and was on the Allison Team, running a heavy modified tractor. He was admitted to the National Tractor Pullers Hall of Fame in 1985. In the 2000s, he worked as a tech official and flag man for the National Tractor Pullers along with his wife, who was an entry clerk. Fred was named official of the year in 2014. He also served on the Illinois Tractor Pulling board for a number of years representing the Northern Zone for the ITPA.  Fred served as Meriden Township Road Commissioner for 19 years. During that same period of time, he served on the Earlville Fire Protection District board, including as President for many years.

Please visit ww.tormanfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest book.