Manfred "Fred" W. Rost

Manfred "Fred" Rost, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on May 11, 1932, in the historic city of Weimar, Thuringia, Germany, Fred was the cherished son of Elise Ilse Koch (neé Rost) and Josef Koch. He was predeceased by his dear wife of 65 years, Hanna B. Rost (neé Scheffler), his parents, his sister Marlies Pollack (neé Keuhne) and his brothers Walter Keuhne, Oswald Koch, and Siegfried Koch. A man of humble beginnings, Fred's journey was marked by courage and determination. In 1956, he emigrated from E. Germany to W. Germany, and eventually Canada, with his brother Oswald, carrying with him a deep appreciation for his heritage and the hopes of a brighter future. On December 20, 1958, Fred married the love of his life, Hanna. They later moved to the United States in 1969, seeking better opportunities for their family. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure, often traveling back to Germany and exploring other European countries. Fred was a skilled craftsman, having honed his trade through an apprenticeship in Germany. He became a self-employed painting contractor, bringing beauty to countless homes and buildings in Canada and the U.S. His expertise and dedication led to a fulfilling career at Florida State University, where he worked in Residential Building Services as a painting trainer and supervisor, overseeing student housing projects until his retirement in 1994. Fred also found great joy in gardening and the outdoors. He enjoyed visiting Tallahassee Nurseries, Dorothy B. Oven Park, as well as St. Marks and Wakulla Springs. Fred is survived by his loving children, Andrew (Reggina Cabrera) Rost, Connie (Gary) McCall, and Tina (Chris) Grant. He leaves behind a legacy of love with his grandchildren, Daniel Rost, Jonah Grant, and Levi Grant, and his great-grandchild, Tessa Rost. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of Big Bend Hospice, with special thanks to Rebecca Narezo for her compassionate care during Fred’s final days. In accordance with Fred's wishes, a private funeral service will be held on October 10, 2026, at 11:00.