Fred M. Gavalier, Sr.

Fred M. Gavalier Sr., 90, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, at Mercy Health Boardman, with his family by his side.

Fred was born on April 11, 1935, in Struthers, the son of the late Martin and Elizabeth (Pavlicko) Gavalier. He attended Struthers High School during which time he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving from September 21, 1954, to September 20, 1956. While serving, he attended the Armor School and trained as a wheel and track vehicle mechanic. Fred proudly served his country and was the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal.

In 1966, Fred began his career at General Motors Lordstown, becoming the 80th employee hired. He started as an assembly line worker and eventually worked his way up to an inspector’s position, retiring in 1997. To keep himself busy, he later took on part-time work with Tri County Construction and Struthers Sharpening before fully retiring in 2020.

Fred had many passions. He enjoyed carpentry work, listening to polka music, immersing himself in westerns, whether on screen or in the pages of a book, and cherished the time spent rebuilding his son’s 1977 Camaro Z28 with him. His gift for storytelling was matched only by his ability to make his friends and family laugh with his quick wit and jokes. But most of all, he loved sharing his boundless knowledge with his children and grandchildren.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Veronica (Colonie) Gavalier (lovingly known as Ronnie); his daughters, Leslie (Jon) Hunter of Canfield and Renee (Chris) Nye of Austintown; his daughter-in-law, Dawn (Zamary) Gavalier of Aurora; his grandchildren, Zachary, Matthew, Olivia, Caiden, Ryan, Rachel, Riley, and Reid; great-granddaughter, Elly; and sister, Mary Lou Bobic.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Fred M. Gavalier Jr., and nine siblings.

Honoring Fred's wishes, no formal services will be held.

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