Fred G. Peklo Jr.

Fred G. Peklo Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026 at the Villa of Lincoln Park. Fred, known by many as “Freddie”, was born in a log cabin on Foley Road in Caledonia on September 26, 1935. Fred was the son of the late Fred Sr. and Ester A. Peklo (Nee: Larson)

Fred attended Linwood School and later Horlick High School until the 12th grade when he had to give up school to work on the family farm when his father became ill. Fred worked several jobs including as a Core Maker at the Standard Foundry in Racine. There was very little work at the time and Fred from an early age had a strong interest in carpentry, which was a lifelong passion.

On June13, 1959 Fred married the love of his life, Elaine E. Wagner, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Fred was hired as a patrol officer badge #224 with the Racine Police Department in August of 1959 and served the residents of Racine for 31 years before retiring in April of 1990. While working for the City of Racine Fred earned a degree in Police Service from Kenosha Technical Institute, a degree in Criminal Justice from Carthage College, and a Degree in Police Operations and Management. Fred was a member of the City of Racine “20-year Club.”

Upon his retirement Fred enjoyed several passions in hobbies. Fred rekindled his love for carpentry building cabinets and projects, including the wood display above the paint section of Douglas Hardware. Fred had a love for fishing, dancing, and playing cards. Fred and Elaine traveled to several Polka dances as well as to their second home in Brothertown, WI.

Fred was preceded in his death by Elaine, his wife of 57 years, who passed away in 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer, his sister Marie Meyers, and his half- brother PFC. Eugene Creuziger, who was killed in the Korean War in 1951. Fred is survived by his three daughters: Debra (Fred) Swenson, Sheryl (Gary) Estep and Jennifer (Robert) Carder as well as his three grandsons: Gregory Goetsch, Nicholas (Kati) Estep, and James (Brielle) Parkhill. Fred has three great grandchildren: Elliot, Everett, and Claire. Fred is also survived by his dear sister-in-law Lorraine Kosterman as well as many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services celebrating Fred’s life will be held at 11:00 am at the funeral home, May 1, 2026, with visitation at 10:00 am until time of service. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32.