Published on August 26, 2025 5:45 pm
Last Updated on August 26, 2025 5:45 pm
Fred Franklin Manhart, a beloved husband, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 83 on August 23, 2025.
Fred was born on December 17, 1941, in Effingham, the son of Edwin Ray and Ruth Foster (Anderson) Manhart. He graduated from Stewardson-Strasburg High School in the Class of 1959. He furthered his education at the University of Illinois, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering. His commitment to his country was evident as he served in the United States Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. Returning home, he dedicated his career to farming in the Stewardson area, a testament to his love for the land and the community he so deeply cared about. Fred married Janet Baumgarten on September 10, 1966, and together they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and enduring memories. An active and faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Fred’s spiritual life was rooted in the place where he was baptized and confirmed. His service and dedication to his church community were unwavering, reflecting his belief in giving back to the community that had given him so much. Fred’s passion for farming never waned; even in retirement, he found joy in helping the boys with the farm work. His hobbies were as varied as they were enthusiastic; he was an avid toy collector, a golfer who played major courses around the world, a gardener, a Corvette enthusiast, an auction-goer, and he enjoyed wintering in Florida.
Fred’s legacy continues through his wife of 58 years, Janet of Stewardson; his siblings, Paul (Carol) Manhart of Strasburg, Peter (Karen) Manhart of Downs, Michael (Linda) Manhart of Moweaqua, and Muriel Merriman of Stewardson; as well as his sisters-in-law, Oksana Manhart of Libertyville and Kathy Manhart of Strasburg. His life was also enriched by the presence of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Ruth Manhart; brothers, James and Noel Manhart; brother-in-law, James Merriman; and his pal and buddy, Greg Baumgarten.
Services to honor and celebrate Fred’s life will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, and at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stewardson. Burial will take place in Stewardson Cemetery. Memorials in Fred’s honor may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Trinity Lutheran School or Stewardson Cemetery and may be mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.