Frederick Paul Roest, Jr.

Frederick Paul Roest Jr. “Fred,” also known as “Butch,” age 87, of Gatesville passed away on February 23, 2025, comfortably at home surrounded by his loving family and pets. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on March 16, 2025, at The Dove Nest Dry Bean Saloon, 2225 County Road 342, in Gatesville for anyone who knew Fred or Joann or wishes to support the family. The family invites everyone who wishes to bring a potluck style dish to share to do so. Services will be for both Joann, who passed away January 15, 2010, and Fred, as neither wanted to be remembered without the other.

Fred was born on May 7, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to the late Frederick and Margaret Roest where he grew up before proudly enlisting and serving in the United States Army from December 2, 1955, to November 29, 1957. He then enlisted in the Navy in September of 1958, retiring in July of 1978. Fred completed five tours in Vietnam and retired as E7 Chief Boatswains Mate. After retirement, Fred worked in the Tennessee Correctional Division for three years furthering his dedication to his country’s life and liberty. He met the love of his life Joann Louise Stitt, and they married on October 25, 1966. He was known for his dedication to his family, his pets, and his country.

Fred is proceeded in death by his parents, Frederick and Margaret Roest; his wife, Joann Roest; and sister, Penny McClane.

He is survived by his children, Roxeanne Stitt, Tim Loftis, Paul Roest and wife, Geri, Paula McKinnon, Terry Roest and wife, Ellan, and Cheryl Loftis; grandchildren, Hope McKinnon, Brandon McKinnon, Britney Hudson and husband, Cameron, Tyler McKinnon, Rayman Roest, Jordyn Roest, Will Powell, Brandi Powell, and Ethan Roest; great grandchildren, Adalie Hudson and Alaric Fernandez; sister, Carol Jenkins; as well as numerous other grandchildren and great grandchildren that were near and dear to his heart.

Fred will be deeply and profoundly missed by all who had the honor to know and love him. Strength, dignity, and honor are his legacy and the image in which he lived. The world was a better place for his existence and he left big shoes to fill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gatesville Animal Shelter or Coryell Veterinary Clinic.