James Fretwell, 79, of Vero Beach, passed away on Wednesday Nov. 11, 2015 with his wife and children by his side.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Sharon Stanford Fretwell; his two daughters Julie Lisle (Buddy) of Palm City, Shelly Craft (Will) of Vero Beach; three grandsons, Raybo Lisle of Palm City, Ben Lisle of Palm City, and Chandler Craft of Vero Beach; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was the eldest son of seven children, June Thompson of Perry, Ga., (deceased), Louie Fretwell, of Vero Beach (deceased), Mary Hart of Perry, Ga., Bennie Fretwell of Acworth, Ga., Glenda Bishop of Perry, Ga., and Linda Heath of Perry, Ga.
He was born in Byron, Ga., on Dec 11, 1935.
After serving his country in the 82nd Co. of the United States Navy and the Reserves, Fretwell bought his first semi and started his own trucking company, which brought him to Vero Beach in the early 60’s.
He met the love of his life Sharon, married her in 1966, and together they solely owned and operated James Fretwell Trucking and Truck Brokerage. Because of this work ethic, high standards and determination his company grew to a fleet of 18 and was known as a premier transport company for more than 30 years.
After retiring, his greatest joy came from caring and helping his family, Saturday morning breakfasts with his nephews Bruce and Tom, and working occasionally for his friend Rick Weibelt at R&J Crane, where his driving experience was put to good use hauling large cranes. He was always the happiest when he was being productive and working.
Fretwell was dedicated to his work, his wife, his daughters and grandsons. Although he commanded respect, those who knew him knew the size of his heart matched the size of this stature. His family was very blessed to have had him and he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He believed in assisting our Veterans and helping homeless animals so in lieu of flowers please continue the tradition by sending donations to the Wounded Warriors, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or H.A.L.O. Animal Rescue, 710 Jackson Street, Sebastian, Fl. 32958.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015 at Strunk Funeral home in Vero Beach. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, 2015 at the funeral home.
A guest book is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
