Search by Name

Search by Name

William Frederick Obituary

Frederick, William Nicholas Age 90, of Chicago, who was one of a very small number of America's most distinguished metal smiths, died at 11:50 p.m. Friday, May 11, 2012 in Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago. Born Dec. 18, 1921, in the farming community of Sycamore where he attended the classic "one-room schoolhouse". Enlisting in the Armed Forces in 1942, he as he put it, "fought the Battle of the Charles River Basin" when stationed in Boston as an Ensign. Being in the Navy allowed him to attend Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he received his Aeronautical Engineering degree. This background undoubtedly is responsible for the inventive structural form in some of his designs. When he was separated from the Navy in 1946, Bill pursued his BFA and MFA degrees in Art from The School of Art Institute of Chicago, where he subsequently taught for six years. He was a member of the Arts Club of Chicago Among many diverse projects, liturgical and otherwise, some 400 or more chalices are singularly creative as he never repeated a design. Consistent and distinctive in his designs is the use of the hammered surface. This surface is unique to each craftsman. Bill preferred the textured instead of the smooth, polished surface; it appeared in most of his works. His long career was sustained by word of mouth, reception of many awards and articles in trade publications. Notable was the support afforded by his life partner of more than fifty years, the noted artist Ralph Arnold, who preceded him in death. Bill's creative importance is recognized by many clients, collectors, colleagues, and friends. His work is in several museums including the Art Institute of Chicago. A private burial service will be held at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Sycamore. A memorial service will be held in the near future. A memorial fund has been established for The Paul's Foundation, 3260 N. Lake Shore Drive, Suite 12A, Chicago, IL 60657. Arrangements were completed by Olson Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd., Quiram Sycamore Chapel. Information or to leave a message of condolence visit www.olsonfh.com<http://www.olsonfh.com or 815-895-6589.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on May 15, 2012.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for William Frederick

Not sure what to say?





Still missing you, Bill, and remembering you with love.

Vicki Frederick

Family

May 9, 2021

We were so saddened to hear of the loss of Nicholas William Frederick ( Bill). We remember him way back when he and his partner started P F Ventures --East Palo Alto, Calif. ---- Yes, that was a long time ago!

Elizabeth and Winnie Rovetto

August 1, 2012

I will never forget a ride in a convertible through Sycamore, DeKalb & Rockford! What a wide ride. I wish we'd known you better, Cousin Billy!

Barbara Frederick

May 25, 2012

I could use a few more hundred visits like that one with you and Vicki . . . I'm very proud to say you're my cousin. God blessed you William. You with your work will live on forever.

Art Buehring

May 22, 2012

Bill and I worked on many projects together. Always a gentleman, always cheerful (except when he had his hernia) and always a pleasure to work with. He was a truly kind and "human" being. Bill knew his profession inside and out, he could do it all. It's time to put the hammer down, Bill, it's time for a rest.

E. Geberbauer

May 18, 2012

It was heavy heart that we learned of the passing of Bill. He had been not only a customer of ours since 1978 but had become part of our extended family. Our condolences and prayers to his family.

From all of us at Weber Automotive Service, Glenview, Illinois

May 18, 2012

Bill, thank you for sharing so much of your work, life and friendship with me over the past few years. I'm glad we got to know each other. You and Ralph will always be an inspiration to me. I hope you are together in Heaven. With love -

Vicki Frederick

May 17, 2012

We feel like Bill is an old friend who has been an intimate part of our lives. He was a young man, 43 years ago, when he crafted our wedding rings. Since then he created a ring for my husband and a watch band me incorporating our personal commitment to one another. He was a wonderful human being. Bill and Kathleen Watts

May 16, 2012

My father, Russell Flanders, told stories of his cousin Billy and his wonderful silversmithing. I hope Billy and Dad are meeting again in Heaven.

Janet Smith

May 16, 2012

Bill, you were a shining light in a lot of lives. I also appreciate you being a connection to my father's side of the family. The good Lord probably already has you busily adorning heaven! Enjoy!

Mike Frederick

May 16, 2012

I only met Bill briefly several years ago, but he showed me his home and workshop and I learned so much about him and his work during that visit. Most important to me was the wonderful example he and his partner Ralph set, and the support they provided, for my brother in embracing his life as a gay man.

Debbie Green

May 15, 2012

In memory of a remarkable man - he will be held in our hearts forever and dearly missed.

Ron & Deborah Syman

May 15, 2012

Sad news comes to cast a shadow on this beautiful May day. I shall miss Bill deeply and recall with joy and thankfulness the many times over so many years shared with him, and the last luncheon with him and two other dear friends just over a year or so ago. Rest in peace, dear Bill! Be blessed for the beauty you have left in this world and in the hearts of your friends through your magnificent gifts! Sister Agnes Cunningham, sscm

Sister Agnes Cunningham

May 15, 2012

Thank you for sharing your talents with me many years ago. Rest in Peace.

Bob Lewandowski

May 15, 2012

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

Make a Donation
in William Frederick's name

Memorial Events
for William Frederick

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Frederick's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more