Birth date: Jul 2, 1947 Death date: Apr 17, 2022
Jan Fredericks of Huntersville, NC went to his Lord on Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1947, Jan graduated with a Masters in Musicology from Cape Town University, after which he was awarded a Read Obituary
I met Jan in the late 60s, when we were students together at the University of Cape Town and we became close friends. It was always a joy to see him each day and be greeted by that 'twinkle' in his eyes. It was a great sadness to me that the political conditions in South Africa in those days restricted are social interactions but we made the most of the times we had together. I moved to the UK and he moved to the USA, a decision that I can completely understand. Sadly we lost touch, but it is wonderful to read of the wonderfully varied, full and deeply Christian life in the USA - bless him.
I met Jan through Barbara whom I met when she was a new intern and I was a new RN. We became friends and my mother embraced her as another daughter. I recall their wedding and, later, our first visit with newborn Elizabeth. I remember our trip to Buttermilk Park in Ithaca, NY. I remember when they moved to Stillwater, OK and was so happy when they returned to Rochester. Jan's piano playing was extraordinary, soothing and perfect to my ears. I was in Wegmans once and heard a man speaking. He had the same intonations in his voice as Jan and was surprised when I turned and said, "South Africa!" He asked how I knew, telling me most people guess his accent to be Australian. What truly kind, loving people Barbara and Jan have been! I have missed them so much since they moved to NC. Thank God for telephones! I continue to keep Barbara in prayer and though I know she misses Jan terribly, she and the children are strong and God's grace will carry them through. RIP, dear almost-a-brother-in-law! Your suffering has ended and your spirit is safely home with God!
Thank you Jan for your life, your gifts, your passion, your hospitality and your caring which you embody for me. This feels like a serious loss, but on the other hand I'm glad you are in a good place enjoying a rich reward. Thank you for being being a light, a holy and happy soul. I'll never forget your greeting "Happy Easter Monday"!
The Bereavement Ministry Team and the Parish Community of St. Mark Catholic Church extend our deepest sympathy at this difficult time. Be assured that you and your family are in our prayers.
Dear Barbara and family, Jan and Dave send their most heartfelt sympathy at the passing of your dear Jan from this world into Heaven. Surely, Jan is now welcomed into the Kingdom of God.
Dave first knew Jan from the Knights choir where he experienced Jan's powerful and talented vocals. Later, Jan joined Dave's bible study where he shared his passionate faith with the men. Whenever Jan exclaimed inciteful commentary on the biblical passage at hand, the group fell noticeably silent so as to listen to Jan's wisdom.
Oh Jan, that I could have known you longer and benefitted from your wisdom!
Jan impressed us very much with his perseverance, in the midst of his suffering, to attend daily Mass at St Mark.
We pray that Barbara and Jan's family are comforted by the consolation that Jan rests in the loving arms of God the Father, where God willing, we will join him one day.
Jan and Dave Stoughton
Rip dear Jan! .. you were truly a jolly soul and full of words of wisdom..I will miss your comments on my fb posts and our conversations on messenger..your battle is over, sleep well "oom Jan" Barbara and children and grandchildren you are in our prayers may God be your portion and comfort during this sad and difficult time .. Gene and Russell
May God richly bless his good and faithful servant Jan. He embodied what it means to be a good Catholic husband, father, and grandfather.
Oom Jan always had a smile in his voice which made him immediately recognizable when he called. I will cherish all the letters, cards and little gifts which he sent every year. His gentle and loving spirit. His devotion to his faith, his life works and his role as husband and father is inspiring. He is a rolemodel to me as a young husband and father. We thank God for the life of Oom Jan and may he enjoy eternal life with our Lord. May God hold you in His loving arms and comfort you Aunty Barbara, Elizabeth, Theresa, Andrew, Francis,Star, Rebecca, Rosie and Devon. Love, Gabriel, Keisha and Brielle
