Fredrick John Minikel, age 68, of Constantine, passed away Friday, April 14, 2017 at his home. He was born in Benton Harbor on February 16, 1949, a son of Harry and Constance (Brezinski) Minikel. Fredrick graduated from Benton Harbor Schools in 1967 and obtained his associates degree from Lake Michigan College. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1967-1971. He worked as a self-employed contractor for most of his life. On February 14, 2004, he married Ruth Ward in Dowagiac. Fredrick was a member of the Constantine American Legion Post 223 and he loved fishing and gardening.

Surviving Fredrick are his wife Ruth of Constantine, son Jeremy (Amanda) Minikel of Bowling Green, KY, son Bryan (Elizabeth) Minikel of Raleigh, NC, daughter Rachel Minikel of Wolverine Lake, granddaughter Evelyn Minikel of Bowling Green, KY, brother Bud (Rose) Minikel of Raleigh, NC, sister Diane (Norman) Vance of Tennessee, and sister Gloria James of Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Royce and David Minikel.

Relatives and friends will be received Wednesday, April 19 from 9-11 am with a service following at 11 at Eley Funeral Home, Constantine. Cremation will take place after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Constantine American Legion. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.