Fred McGuire Teagarden

Fred McGuire Teagarden, 80, of Water Valley passed away on February 11, 2022, but we take comfort and rejoice in knowing that he is with his creator.

Fred was born on March 26, 1941 in San Angelo to Fred (Sr.) and Veda Teagarden. At a young age, Fred developed a passion and love for the outdoors and spent many years exploring the North Concho River and the surrounding wilderness. Throughout his adolescence he continued to grow into a lifelong outdoorsman with hunting and fishing stories that became grander with each retelling. Fishing was one of the central themes in Fred's life, and he would gladly leave his home in the Concho Valley if only to read the water and work the streams outside of Lake City, CO for rainbow trout.

Fred graduated in 1959 from Central High School and went on to attend Angelo State University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree. He became a passionate senior hydrologist with a talent for scientific and technical writing. His work at SKG Engineering and the Upper Colorado River Authority guided and shaped many hydrologic infrastructures in the Concho Valley and his contributions to the restoration of the Concho River helped change the downtown River Walk into what is now enjoyed by so many.

As an avid fly fisherman and a hydrologist, Fred knew that "Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it."

Fred married Anna Cruse on May 31, 1961 and went on to become the proud father of 3 Children, Ted Teagarden, Amy Schwertner and Tim Teagarden; grandfather of 6, Krysta Demere, Chase Demere, Ashley Bower, Emily King, Tanner Teagarden, Tate Teagarden; and great-grandfather of 5. A true patriarch, Fred was the cornerstone of his family. He sat at the head of the table for every Sunday lunch, where there was never an empty seat, but all were welcomed. He was dedicated to instilling and sharing his love for the great outdoors with his grandchildren. He never failed to wake up early, fill a thermos with hot chocolate and patiently wait with a grandchild in a deer blind until the sun rose on a cold fall morning and the right buck presented itself. To say that his family and friends will miss him greatly is an understatement.

Fred also had a deep love for animals - from his hunting dogs to this granddaughter's horses, and even the occasional "adopted" roadrunner named Mabel who lived in the house pasture.

In midlife Fred learned of his Hebrew roots and was devoted to studying the word of God with his congregation. He enthusiastically shared biblical teachings and helped lead others to Yeshua. His beloved fellowship became a cherished second family. For Fred, "to live is Christ and to die is gain," - Philippians 1:21.

Memorial service for Fred will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Mr. Don Longoria, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.