Frederick "Fred" Bleakley

Birth date: Nov 14, 1960 Death date: Nov 9, 2025

For those unable to attend Fred’s service in person, it will be available to view on the Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services YouTube channel. It will not be live-streamed, but you may watch it after the conclusion of the service. Read Obituary

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Deborah Hunter

6w ago

Fred has been my heart and soul since I was born. Protector is my one word for him. Yes, he protected me in many situations, but he also protected those around him as best he could. We didn’t always agree on things, in fact we disagreed a lot. But, he respected and nurtured those differences. So I will remember him as my protector in life, the person who took me to my first concert (So Much Fun!), the one who lived his life to the absolute fullest (Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life”) and the one who never missed a chance to tell you how much he loved/was proud of us. There are so many wonderful memories to share, but I hold them close. Fortunately, he left a beautiful legacy behind that I look forward to being a part of My dear big brother…thank you for “beating up” my bullies, being my protector, supporting me in life, and loving my family. I’m not ready to leave this earth, but you have reminded me to take all of life in going forward. I do look forward to seeing you in our heavenly father’s kingdom. Wait for me at the gates. I love you so much. My 62 year life has never been without you. 😞

Roy Portenga

7w ago

Freddie was a big splash in a big pond; he loved life and sucked it in like a vacuum. And, Ann and family, he loved you so. We are so sorry for your loss; you have our deepest sympathy. Roy and Britta Portenga

Jon Palmen

7w ago

Golfing with Fred was always so memorable. I will miss the conversation and stories but mostly learning how to live life to the fullest with family and friends. Fred was one of the best.

Kristen Marie

7w ago

Hey Dad, I’ll miss our adventures and weekly talks. Your laugh and smile are imprinted in my memory for the rest of my life. I love you so much Dad.

Fred B.

7w ago

Planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Frederick.

A vibrant green tree flourishes in a sunny area, showcasing thick leaves and a sturdy trunk.

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Fred B.

7w ago

Sent a Gracious Lavender Basket to the Bleakley family.

A vibrant display of pink and purple flowers in a woven basket adds charm to any setting.

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Charles Wahl

7w ago

Charles Wahl

7w ago

Anonymous

7w ago

Sent a Sentiments of Serenity Spray to the Bleakley family.

This standing floral arrangement blends white roses and delicate blooms for a special occasion.

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Charles Palmer

7w ago

I'm so sad to hear about Fred's untimely passing. He was not only a top notch lawyer, but perhaps more importantly, a kind, generous, soft-spoken, and thoughtful person. Because I practiced WC law primarily in SE Michigan, I didn't see Fred very often. But my wife and I spent time with Fred and Ann in Santa Maria Huatulco, Mexico in February 2014, on one of the many WC winter trips Fred organized for the Section. The days were beastly hot, but in the evenings Len Hickey would bring his guitar and his songbook down to the beach and many of us on the junket would sing songs and have a great time. This picture was taken at sunset on one of those lovely evenings. I'm grateful for the time I spent with Fred and Ann. I will always remember his calm and thoughtful demeanor. My sympathies to Ann and the family. I'm so sorry for your loss. a
-Chuck Palmer

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