Fred Italian, 78, T/Sgt. Ret. USAF, of New Braunfels passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Austin. Fred was born on May 8, 1931, in St Louis, Mo., to Joseph and Louise Italiano. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Christopher and Vincent Italian, sisters Bessie Cole and Rose Freant; and first wife and mother of his children, Pearlene Nixon Italian.
Fred is survived by his loving wife of over 42 years, Betty; beloved daughters, Terri Lee Italian, LuShane and Johnny Golson, and Jo Lynn Rasmussen; grandsons James and Gena Rasmussen, Michael Orndoff, T/Sgt Johnny Golson; granddaughters Kerri and Matthew Wright, Pearl and William Adkins, Cecilia Golson, Kelli Rasmussen, Amanda and Philip Mercer; 11 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, sisters- and brothers-in-law, and his little dog and constant companion, Snoopy.
Fred was a loving husband and father who never met a stranger and was interested in travel and the world around him. Fred proudly served his country for over 21 years, with duty in Vietnam. We will miss his smiles and his joy of life. Visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Doeppenschmidt Funeral home, 189 N. Seguin Avenue, New Braunfels. The funeral services will be Monday, Nov. 2, 2009 at 12:30 p.m. at the New Braunfels Doeppenschmidt Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio.
The family would like to thank the entire staff of Hospice Austin for their gentle care of Fred.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Christopher House, Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 100, Austin, TX, 78759.
