Fred “Bud” G. Easter, our beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather went to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, on April 24, 2023. Fred was born on Feb. 7, 1927, to Fred M. and Helen (Thompson) Easter in Montesano, Washington.

His father immigrated to America from England and his mother’s family established roots in Grays Harbor in 1889.

Fred graduated from Montesano High School in 1945, where he was a standout athlete in both football and basketball. His 1945 football team was inducted into the Montesano Hall of Fame for their undefeated season. Fred graduated from Washington State University with a degree in business. After a number of years working in his father’s paint and appliance store in Montesano, he went back to school at Seattle Pacific University, where he earned his teaching certificate. Later he went to summer school and earned his principal and superintendent credentials. The majority of Fred’s 33-year career in education was as a principal in the Aberdeen School District. Fred was a highly regarded principal, who was known for his passion and caring for junior-high-age kids.

On April 6, 1950, Fred married his high school sweetheart, Jennie Heikkinen. They were married for nearly 70 years and made their home on a small farm on the Wynoochee River.

Fred is survived by his daughter Lisa (Frank) Winiecki, sons Paul (Karen), Guy (Becky), Carl (Rhonda); nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, sister Dorothy Milrot, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Jennie, his daughter April Easter Cassell, son-in-law Clyde Cassell, daughter-in-law Joan Easter, his parents, and his sisters Marjorie Boardman and Nadine Raubuch.

In addition to his educational career, Fred was involved in numerous activities. He was a member of the Montesano Assembly of God, where he served as a deacon and helped with the construction of their new church. Fred also served on the Selective Service Board.

Fred enjoyed having a milk cow, raising beef, gardening and working on home remodeling projects. He built a sauna overlooking the Wynoochee River and looked forward to his saunas every Wednesday and Saturday. He would joke that he was Finnish by osmosis. He also enjoyed snow skiing and travels to Finland, England, Hawaii and Palm Springs.

A celebration of life will be held on June 24, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Montesano Assembly of God. A luncheon at the church will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Montesano Assembly of God.