Frederick Bertram Ullrich

Frederick Bertram Ullrich, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 3:14 PM. Born in Raymondville, Texas, on December 11, 1943, to Ralph C. Ullrich and Marian Ullrich, Fred was one of five children, landing right in the middle between Ralph Jr., Helen, John, and Marian. Fred’s life was defined first and foremost by his faith in God, his devotion to family, and his unwavering commitment to hard work. He was known for his knack for storytelling that kept his loved ones both entertained and guessing.

Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, Fred attended Edcouch-Elsa High School, where he played football and scored a legendary winning touchdown—despite a busted ankle. It’s a story he told his son Doug a thousand times, but others in the family only just heard recently, leading them to wonder how many unique stories Fred shared with each of his children and grandchildren, weaving a tapestry of memories as unique as each listener.

After leaving South Texas, Fred served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic, spending time in various parts of the world. Though his service took him to many places, he was most fond of his time in Labrador, a chapter of his life he remembered with great pride.

Fred’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Green Acres Lawn Maintenance Company in 1983, a company he ran until 1994. He was immensely proud of his work and of the work ethic he instilled in his children—sometimes through what he jokingly called “servile labor.” That strong sense of responsibility and pride in a job well done is a legacy his family carries forward.

A man of deep faith, Fred’s service to the Catholic Church began early as an altar boy in his youth. For nearly 40 years, he was an active and devoted member of St. John of the Cross in New Caney, TX, and most recently served at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Livingston, TX. As he grew, Fred continued to support traditional roles during Mass, serving as a Eucharistic Minister, and leading the RCIA group, which educates and guides adults through the process of entering the Catholic Church. Fred was always ready to step in and help with anything the church needed, quietly dedicating countless hours behind the scenes. True to his humble nature, most of his contributions went unnoticed by the parish, as he never sought recognition and preferred to serve simply for the good of others—embodying a spirit of service and community throughout his life. He also enjoyed leading the Rosary at St. Joseph’s parish in Livingston and evangelizing to all he met.

Fred really enjoyed fishing—not necessarily for the number of fish caught, but for the joy of getting out on the water and giving it his best shot. His family often joked that the fish were safe whenever he was around, but he never minded; it was the experience that mattered most.

For the better part of 40 years, Fred fought a courageous battle with skin cancer, facing each new challenge with the same determination he brought to every part of his life. He approached each diagnosis as another round of blocking and tackling, never backing down. More recently, his fight became even tougher when the cancer progressed into a more severe form of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), but he continued to face each day with strength and resilience.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Carl and Marian Elizabeth Ullrich. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Patricia Ullrich; beloved children, Kevin Ullrich, Kristine Ullrich Alexander and husband Scott, Katie Krall and husband Mike, Shawn Ullrich and wife Kristi, and Doug Ullrich and wife Tammy; brothers, Ralph C. Ullrich Jr, and John Ullrich and wife Barbara; sisters, Helen Lauer and husband Phillip, and Marian “Cissy” Welsh and husband Mike; 18 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Fred’s life was a mosaic of faith, family, hard work, and love—a story that continues in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be at Pace Funeral Home in Livingston, Texas on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 5-7pm. Rosary Service will begin at 7pm with Deacon Mike Krall officiating.

Mass Services is scheduled for Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 11am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Livingston, Texas with Father Manie Manuel, SVD officiating.

Burial Service is scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2025 at the Houston National Cemetery at 10:15am with Full Military Honors provided by the Houston Honor Guard. Pallbearers for the service will be, Shawn Ullrich, Doug Ullrich, Kevin Ullrich, Conner Ullrich, Justin Byrd, and Michael Krall IV. Honorary Pallbearers will be, Blake Ullrich, Camden Ullrich, and Dylan Ullrich.

All arrangements handled under the trusted care of Pace-Stancil Funeral Home.