VIERTHALER, Frederick Roscoe (Fred)

Funeral services for Fred R. Vierthaler, age 86, of Safford, were conducted Friday, January 16th, 2004, at Bunker's Caldwell Chapel by Pastor Gene Barnett. Graveside services were conducted Saturday, January 17th, 2004, at Mountain View Cemetery in Prescott by Pastor Ron Hartung. Fred was born September 6, 1917, in Prescott, Arizona, the son of Frederick and Anna Maria Vierthaler. He spent his adolescent years there. Following his formal education, Fred obtained work with Phelps Dodge Mining Corporation in Jerome. He began his work as a hard rock underground miner. In 1940, Fred met Carol Hartung. They were married later that same year. In 1950, Fred relocated his family to Bisbee, as he was transferred with the company. In 1974, Fred and Carol again moved, this time to the Gila Valley settling in Safford. Fred retired from his work with Phelps Dodge, following more than 42 years of dedication. At the time of his retirement, Fred was a foreman at the mine. In retirement he could often be found dedicating his time and talents the Mount Graham Regional Medical Center Christmas House and also the Medical Center Auxililary. Fred will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother and friend. Mr. Vierthaler is survived by: his wife of 63 years, Carol, of Safford; his daughter, Valerie Benko, of Safford; two sons, Charles, of Flagstaff and William, of Silver City; his sister, Helen Edwards, of Phoenix; 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Arrangements were entrusted to Bunker's Caldwell Chapel. Published in the Arizona Republic on 1/23/2004.