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.
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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
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