Fredrick "Fred" James Rohde

Fredrick passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, May 30, 2020 at the age of 62. He was born on November 16, 1957 to the late James and Agnes (Schrems) Rohde in Bridgeport. Fred graduated from Bridgeport High School, class of 1975. In 2002 he married Marcie Chisnell in Saginaw, they shared 18 wonderful years together.

Fred worked for Rohde’s Leather Shop in Bridgeport for over 40 years, he become the owner in 2008 when his father James passed away. Although he was a leather man by trade, he was a farmer at heart. Fred started his own farm in 2002 in Bridgeport, growing what he considered “chemical free” produce. He had a true passion for farming and anything that involved working with his hands; he was quite the crafter and could even sew quite well.

Adding to the list of his talents, Fred made mini replicas out of wood and leather, among those were carriages and beer carts. Nailing details right down to the woven mats that beer barrels would bounce off. He took great pride in his leather work, making knife sheaths, gun holders and just about anything you could draw up. Among his many talents, Fred immensely enjoyed playing Santa Clause, he started doing so around 2016 and if you can imagine, he even made his own Santa Suit. Fred was known for his bad jokes and good stories. He will be greatly missed by so many that surrounded him.

Fred is survived by his wife Marcie, his son Adam Rohde and his six siblings; Kathy (Randy) McGee, Rose (Chris) Bayer, Barbara (Jerry) Tanner, Jean (Don) Brotemarkel, Herb Rohde and Jim Rohde. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Fred was preceded in death by his brother Jerry Rohde in 2015.

In accordance with the wishes of the family, cremation has taken place. Due to the world wide health pandemic, a memorial service will take place at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Francis of Assisi Parish (St. Anthony of Padua) (3680 S. Washington Road, Saginaw, Michigan 48601).