Frederick J. Rhynders

Fred Rhynders of Sycamore passed away on August 4, 2022. Born June 12, 1938, to Robert and Charlotte Rhynders in Freeport, Illinois where he would develop a love of mischief and family as big brother and dear uncle to Rosemary (Greg) Rogers and family.

Fred attended Northern Illinois University where he met his forever love, Karen (Michaelis) Rhynders. The two would marry on September 2, 1961, and spend the next 60 plus years growing a loving family and successful business.

In August 1972, Fred and Karen moved their young family from West Chicago to Sycamore, Illinois after the couple bought what would become Kar-Fre Flowers. The name, while often thought to be a misspelling, was a source of pride for Fred as it represented both Karen (Kar) and Fred (Fre) in every matter of the business over these last 50 years.

While Fred grew a vibrant business, he grew an even stronger close-knit family with children Michelle (Scott) Schulz and Kris (Kent) Wrenn. Fred adored being Papa to Kyle (JJ) Schulz, Lucy (Mark) Sieber, Maggie (Myles) Carroll, Madeline (Hunter) Spear and his greatest pride was being great-Papa to his namesake Rhynder Schulz. He will be especially missed by his loyal puppy, Fritz.

Fred's motto was "work hard; play hard" and when he was ready to play, Fred loved fishing, boat rides, and spending time with the Michaelis family in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. He enjoyed beautiful sunsets with a Manhattan on the lanai with Karen and Fritz in Anna Maria Island, Florida, but the best vacations were always those that included Tom and Janis Kirts, Denny and Karen Pickett, Gil and Mary Ann Perzan. A reader, crafter and baker, Fred delighted in the quiet joys of a good book, the satisfaction of finishing a puzzle or Lego set, and sharing his freshly baked breads, chocolates, and rhubarb pies.

What made Fred the happiest were family dinners. Whether a home cooked meal, carry-out, or at a restaurant he relished the loudness, laughter and love that were shared around those tables. Thus, it was his wish to have no "hoopla and fanfare" but for his family to celebrate his life and legacy with a family dinner.

Fred was grateful to have watched his business and family bloom in Sycamore where he truly believed that life did offer more. If you wish to honor Fred, please consider a memorial to one of his favorite Sycamore organizations: Meals on Wheels , Sycamore Education Foundation or Spartan Food Pantry . Fred's family is grateful for the kindness and compassion of the incredible staff at Lincolnshire Place who provided exceptional care and comfort to Fred and his entire family.  Fred's family is also thankful to Sam and Jacqui Finch for their warmth and friendship. Arrangements were entrusted to: Finch Funeral Home, 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL, 60115 (815) 758-3841.