In Memory

Fred Haberstroh

Frederick Norman Haberstroh, “Fred”, age 72, of Sudbury passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 21st, 2023. He was born on May 23rd, 1951 in Albany, New York to Frederick and Mabel Haberstroh and had two sisters, Sheryn and Susan. He was a graduate of Williamsville high school and received his bachelor’s degree from Butler University in 1973. While at Butler, he thrived in Greek life and built lifelong friendships with his Tau Kappa Epsilon brothers, where he served as recruit chair for the fraternity and also served as president of the interfraternity council.

He had a successful career in sales at Mohawk Data Sciences Corporation where he sold data processing equipment in the early era of computers. He quickly advanced from a top sales representative to a sales branch manager and was often recognized for his passion and dedication to his work. Through this role, he met his wife, Patricia; he referred to their 37-year marriage as “the best decision of his life”.

When he was just 35, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, which left him legally blind. In spite of this, he found a way to excel in his circumstances. He learned how to navigate the world without his sight and immersed himself in volunteer work, including a position at the New England Aquarium. He became a certified assessor and served as an elected official on the Sudbury Board of Assessors from 1989 – 1995 and was appointed to the Council on Aging from 1990 – 1994. For 17 years, he served as the President of the Friends of MetroWest MS clinic where he fund raised for equipment, living expenses, and transportation for individuals living with MS. He took pride in counseling newly diagnosed patients, and urged them to focus on what they “can do, rather than dwell on what they cannot do” – a motto he lived by throughout his life.

A resident of Sudbury for more than 40 years, he built lasting relationships in the community. He was an avid golfer and member of the Wayland country club and enjoyed spending time with friends in the clubhouse following an afternoon on the course. He showcased his creativity and skill as a general contractor by designing and renovating his own home. He loved landscaping and caring for his houseplants with his daughter, Jenny, and discussing business and finance with his son, Fred.


He loved to share stories about his life – if you spent even a brief amount of time with him, he would have likely shared his experience at Woodstock in 1969, his cross-country road trip through the US, and his annual camping trip with his fraternity brothers. He loved his family very much and was so proud of his wife and two children. He lived his life with no regrets and enjoyed every moment to the fullest. Although his family and friends will miss his guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support, they will cherish his heartfelt letters and their memories of him for the rest of their lives.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Jenny; son, Fred; sister, Susan, and her partner Paul; and extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his father, Frederick; mother, Mabel; and sister, Sheryn. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 30th, 2023 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Acton Funeral Home, 470 Massachusetts, Ave., Acton, MA



 
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07/12/23 04:28 PM #1    

Charles B. Eller

I'm very saddened to hear this news about Fred!  Fred and I first became friends as co-captains of the track team.  We didn't hang out all that much, except at track meets, etc, but shortly after graduation, he and I piled into my parent's car and headed across New York State to this music festival that we had both heard about.   That festival was Woodstock, and the memories of our time there are indelibly etched into my memory.  

RIP my friend! You'll always be part of those memories.


07/13/23 12:06 PM #2    

Michael J. Sullivan

I was saddened to hear of Fred's passing. The memories I have of him from basketball and track are all good ones, and when I read his life story post high school about his determination and strength, that was the Fred I remembered from our times together. Rest In Peace.

 

 

 


07/13/23 01:19 PM #3    

Mindy Gleason

I too, was so sad to hear about Fred. We lived in the same neigborhood, and particulalry in the summer hung around a lot with the other kids there. The Hirsch family had a trampoline and that was the center of it all. Truth be told, I always had a crush on Fred, and although it wasn't mutual, we were good friends. Seeing him at the reunion warmed my heart, having connected with him again and urging him to put aside his concerns and attend. I believe he was very glad he did. RIP Fred, you were a strong, caring and kind man.  


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