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Frederick B. Larson "Ferd" of Fredonia, NY, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehab Center, at the age of 85, surrounded by his family and friends.
He was the loving father of Amy Cassidy of Dunkirk, NY, and Rodney Larson of Rochester, NY. He was the son of the late Marcella Fox Oviatt of Smethport, PA, and the late Harry Larson of Smethport, PA.
Fred is survived by his sister, Pat Chapman of Youngsville, PA. He was predeceased by his brother, Jack Larson of Fredonia, NY, and his sister, Kay Caruso of Smethport, PA. He was a proud grandfather to Dylan Cassidy of Fredonia, NY; Tyler Cassidy of Buffalo, NY; Sophia Larson of Pittsburgh, PA; and Lia Larson of Kendall, NY.
Fred's love of nature began while growing up on his family's farm in Crosby, PA. His passion for distance running was expressed on the farm and the hills and trails of the surrounding landscape. An avid hiker and lifelong runner, he was a two-time Pennsylvania State Champion in the mile before earning a full scholarship to Penn State University, where he received his degree in Physical Education and later completed his master's degree in teaching. Fred became a long-time physical education teacher and a revered cross-country and track coach alongside his brother Jack at Fredonia High School in Fredonia, NY, from 1967-1995. His ability to coach students from any level to success was exceptional, and the state and national records and recognition have not been forgotten by peers or students under his tutelage. It was during these years Fred Larson was christened "Ferd" by a student. Ferd is and will remain synonymous with Fred Larson for all time.
Fred retired to his homestead in Crosby for a decade before returning to Fredonia to be closer to friends and family. If you had the occasion to see a man walking with purpose wearing an orange hat, umbrella, and yellow reflective tape at odd hours. Chances are it was Ferd.
A Celebration of Fred's Life will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM at Coughlan's Pub, 47 West Main St., Fredonia, NY. Arrangements by the ADDISON FUNERAL HOME, INC. Angola, NY.