Fred “Freddy” Jurgens
SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Wednesday, November 25, 2015, Fred “Freddy” Jurgens of Saratoga Springs journeyed to his final heavenly home. At his request, he was able to spend his last days in the home he built and passed away peacefully within the presence of his family. He was 84.
Fred was born in Bochum, Germany and throughout his childhood lived in different areas of Germany. He faced many difficult and dangerous times as a consequence of WWII. The ability to survive those times instilled an inner strength in Fred that he maintained throughout his entire adult life.
In search of a better life after the war he sailed to Canada in 1951. It was there that he met his British future wife, Anne Porter. They were married in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in 1954 and emigrated to the USA to begin their new life together in 1956. They became US citizens in 1962.
Their first years in America were spent in Rochester and Pulaski, NY. In 1962, Fred was transferred to Saratoga Springs to work on the Northway Highway project. With a strong desire for his family to have a permanent home, Fred began his own construction business in Saratoga. This enabled him to build a house on Patricia Lane while also engaging in the completion of many projects in and around the Capital District.
Fred was well known for his outspoken and passionate views on politics. Tuning in to MSNBC daily was as important to him as his cup of coffee. “Freddy” shared his opinions and knowledge of history with everyone . . . even if they didn’t want to hear it. His unique understanding of world events has always been a source of education for everyone who knew and loved him.
Many heartfelt thanks to Saratoga Hospital and all of the fine people there who helped keep him going through some rough times in recent years. Fred had a zest for life that did not want to quit. Hospice helped him find peace at the end, and for that the Jurgens Family is grateful and so thankful for the time they had with him.
Fred is survived by his beloved “Bunzie” and their five children; Kathy (Dan) Gregory, Nora Reed, Ron (Soni) Jurgens, William Jurgens and Julie Jurgens. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren; Ryan, Robert, Kasi, Chelsea, Meghan, Lauren and Max. He will be loved eternally by them all, and never forgotten.
Family and friends were invited to help honor Fred’s life at the Compassionate Care Funeral Home on 402 Maple Ave, Rt. 9 in Saratoga Springs on Monday, November 30. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Fred’s memory to Saratoga Hospital or Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
