In Memoriam: Frederic Ayres

Frederic W. Ayres of Eau Claire Wisconsin, passed away at Mayo’s Eau Claire Luther Critical Care Unit on December 2, 2024.  He was 97, born in Eau Claire to Albert Owen Ayres and Florence (Schuette) Ayres on October 9th, 1927. 

After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army and served in Korea 1947-1949.  During that period tensions escalated into the Korean War.  He cleared supply warehouses of enemy combatants, guarded supply trains, performed riot control, and was involved in small skirmishes. 

After an honorable discharge, he earned his B.S. in Mining Engineering in 1952 After college he met and later married Jeanette Ion Grams of Augusta, Wisconsin. 

Fred and Jeanette raised four boys, Jeff, Jim, Paul, and Tom, all born in Eau Claire, WI.     

Fred was President of Eau Claire Sand & Gravel (later American Materials) from 1958 to 1980; then CEO 1980 to 1992.  He continued to serve as a reference through 2011, and provided background and historical information for sand and gravel resources.  He was a local business leader and was on the board of directors for many community organizations including serving as President of the Eau Claire Chippewa Falls Builder Exchange in 1961.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Owen Ayres, grandson Nicholas Ayres, first wife Jeanette Ayres, sister Natalie Danielson, and second wife Kathy Cherrier.  He is survived by his four sons Jeffrey Ayres, James Ayres (Kim), Paul Ayres (Shelley), & Thomas Ayres.  He is also survived by grandchildren Bailey Ayres, Alexander Ayres (Emily T.), Charles Ayres (Sammie), Emily Ayres (Jenna), and three great grandchildren. 
 In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Fred Ayres, to the Eau Claire Memorial High School Booster Club. Please request in the note-section of your check/donation, to put half of the  donation toward Golf and/or Basketball.

Visitation will be Friday December 13, 2024, 4:00pm – 6:00pm at Hulke Family Funeral Home, Eau Claire, WI.  A service will be held at 6:00pm at the funeral home, followed by military honors, outside the funeral home. Funeral services will be officiated by Pastor Josh Toufar.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.