Fred Foster was a native of Athens and a member of a large pioneer clan, whose antecedents were pioneers around Athens, Amesville, Belpre and points west. The story of their activities and achievements was well told a few years ago in a book by “Grandma” Brown, a grand old character of the old days. Close friends had conferred on decedent the title of “Colonel”, and Mhis wife recalled he was appointed a colonel while stationed in Kentucky. He was a kind and indulgent husband and father, tenderly devoted to his home, and countless friends in Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky will regret to hear of his death.

Col. William Wilfred Foster invariably called Fred — was the youngest son of William and Zimrode (Carter) Foster. He would have been seventy-five on May 27. As a boy in his teens Fred Foster was a handsome and rugged figure as he helped his father in the transportation business in Athens. His picturesque attire made him the envy of other male teenagers. He was a star in home silent shows and his keen sense of humor made him a delightful companion.

After leaving here, he served hotels in Charleston, Old Sweet Springs, West Virginia and Frankfort, Kentucky. On May 11, 1915, while still in Charleston, he married Billie George Spencer of Beckley. Returning to Gallipolis, he engaged in the breeding of horses and had a passionate interest in trotters and pacers.

Fred was survived by his wife and the following children: Dan, in the Marine Corps at Quantico, Virginia; George and Johnnie, at home; Mrs. George (Mary) Kershaw, Gallipolis; Mrs. Nelson (Emogene) Wheeler, Ashland, Kentucky; and Miss Glorianna, Bonn, Germany. Wilford, eldest of the Foster children, was a casualty of World War II. He was killed in France, April 1, 1945. Two daughters preceded the father in death. Surviving sisters were Mrs. Bertha Daily, Athens; Mrs. Elizabeth Humphrey, Corona, California; and Mrs. Daisy Brown, Warren, Ohio. Four sisters and two brothers preceded him in death.

Col. Foster was a life member of the Gallipolis Lodge of Elks. His greatest achievement perhaps was the founding of the Spring Hill Dairy. His health began to fail in 1944 and he retired from business the following year.