Friedhelm "Fred" Erwin Marunde, Former Mayor of Forest Park (1979-1987), IL, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025.  Loving husband to the late Roberta (nee Slavik), devoted father to Kristin and the late Kimary; dear brother of Christel Freeman (late Walter); fond brother-in-law of Nadine Myers; devoted uncle of Jennifer (Zach) Newton, Heather (Greg) Sorrells, great uncle (Opa) to Nathan and Olivia; proud uncle to Steven Cross and Jeffrey (Lea) Cross, also great uncle to Christopher, Phillip, Aaron and Adam and treasured family friend Patricia Witte.

Fred was born on January 7, 1935, in the Jastrow/Pommern, Germany to parents Elizabeth and Alfred Marunde. The day before his 10th birthday, soldiers of the invading Russian Army took his family prisoner. They survived on scraps the soldiers tossed into the kitchen garbage. One night, during a vicious winter storm, Fred was able to flee with his mother and sister through a heavily wooded area in the British DMZ of West Germany.  However, they were caught by Russian border guards in October 1946, but his mother was able to bribe them with Vodka.

Following a separation of more than 7 years, Fred's father was reunited with the family in Muenster / Westfallen thanks to the help of the American Red Cross.  In Muenster Fred resumed his education, walking eight miles a day to attend school.   Four long years later, in April 1952, the family floated past Lady Liberty following a successful application to immigrate to the United States and subsequently settled in Forest Park.  Fred joined the Jugendchor (Young People's Chorus) in Forest Park and the Harlem Maennerchor (Male Chorus).   He served as president of the Jugendchor from 1953 until 1956.

Fred enlisted in the United States Army in July 1956; during his attachment to the Army Engineers at the Presidio of San Francisco, where he served as a map engraver to the 6th U.S. Army 30th Engineer Corps, ultimately earning the rank of Specialist 5th class.  During his service, he became an American citizen. Upon his honorable discharge, Fred returned to Forest Park and married his sweetheart, Roberta. They were soon blessed by the arrival of Kimary IIleen, and Kristin Ann shortly afterward. Fred established his own young family in Forest Park, and it was here that he began his career as a public servant.

As a civilian, Fred spent 39 years working for Process Color Plate, a Division of Schawk Graphics Inc.  in Desplaines, IL.  He served as an advisor for customers throughout the food and beverage industry. During that time, Fred was active in German American singing societies. Notably, he served as President Emeritus for the Harlem Male Chorus, United Male Choruses of Chicago, and the North American Singers Association.

Fred co-founded "Oktoberfest" in Forest Park in 1966 to bring the community together while upholding German traditions. It remains in operation 59 years later. Fred and Roberta were also active volunteers at the Altenheim, affectionately referred to as the German "Old People's Home," where they served a combined 50 years committed to the welfare of its residents. From 1971-1979 they served on the Board of Directors for the facility. They were honored for their efforts with an historical bell and plaque in 2005, placed outside of Altenheim.

Following many years of service to his community, Fred was asked by many local organizations to run for political office. He agreed and was elected as Commissioner of the Village of Forest Park (1975-1979). He subsequently served consecutive four-year terms as Mayor of the Village of Forest Park.

Fred felt privileged to be a public servant in his new homeland.  In addition to his fervent dedication to the democratic process, he strived to keep alive the cultural heritage of his mother country.  His activism, ongoing participation, and commitment to his fellow man have enriched his many years of service to Forest Park and the German community.  On September 11, 1983, Fred was awarded the German Cross, Germany's highest civilian decoration. The Cross was presented to him by the German Ambassador in Forest Park at St. John Lutheran Church on behalf of the German President. This honor was bestowed upon him for his endeavors to strengthen German American friendship.

Upon retirement, Fred and Roberta relocated in the Spring of 2000 to Bonita Springs, Florida. Both became active members at Hope Lutheran Church, serving on the Board of Elders and the Hope Foundation.

Freidhelm "Fred" Erwin Marunde lived his life with strength, kindness, humor, and a deep love for family and community. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. All to meet Thursday, June 5, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church, 305 Circle Ave., Forest Park for a Visitation from 10:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Service 11:00 a.m. Interment Bronswood Cemetery. For funeral info 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L.