Frederick Lovern, 74
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Frederick Lovern, 74, of Union Street died Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016, at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, after a long illness.
Born in Northampton on Oct. 12, 1941, he came to the Drury farm in the town of Florida, where he joined the Oleson family as a foster child. He attended Drury High School.
A Navy veteran, he enlisted in 1959 and was proud to serve in a Construction Battalion, known as the "fighting SeaBees."
Upon his discharge from the Navy, Mr. Lovern kept his interest in heavy machinery and worked for many years traveling cross country as a tractor-trailer driver, driving for many local trucking companies as well. He also worked for the former General Electric Co. in Pittsfield for many years. He retired from the highway department in the town of Florida, and loved traveling the roads of his adopted hometown.
He was a former member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, for which he also coached softball. Upon his retirement, he turned his hand to remodeling his old home and spent many days woodworking and designing. He enjoyed mechanics, restoring antique tractors and the endless project of refurbishing his beloved old truck. He occasionally still helped on the farm, keeping his interest in the land and the livestock. He was especially attached to his pets and always had his dog at his side in his daily travels.
Mr. Lovern battled cancer for many years and believed fiercely in staying strong. He was the go-to driver for anyone traveling or needing a ride anywhere. He dispensed the wisdom of his life experience freely and vigorously to all friends and acquaintances. Many will miss stopping by the garage or the front porch to seek advice, argue politics or just have coffee with him.
Berkshire County was his home for many years and he will be remembered here by family and friends.
He and his wife, Colleen Hunkler, were married on Dec. 26, 1997.
Besides his wife, who was his companion of 39 years and will miss him every day, he leaves a brother, Terrence Lovern of Mississippi; family in the state of Florida, and his adopted family, the Olesons of the town of Florida.
FUNERAL NOTICE — A memorial gathering for Mr. Lovern will be held at a later date. There will be no calling hours.
Donations may be made in his name to PopCares Inc. in care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapels, 74 Marshall St., North Adams.