Fred A. Thatcher

Fred A. Thatcher, age 82 of Wyoming, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

Fred was born on May 21, 1944, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Robert and Mildred (Johnson) Thatcher. He grew up in Saint Paul and attended Mechanic Arts High School, where he enjoyed playing hockey. After high school, Fred proudly answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge, he returned home to Minnesota and began the next chapter of his life.

In 1969, a night out with a couple of buddies and a party he almost certainly never imagined would change his life brought Fred to the love of his life, Donna Kracht. He pursued her for a little while before she finally agreed to start dating him, and the two were married on January 16, 1970, at Forest and Jenx Lutheran Church in Saint Paul. Together, Fred and Donna built a life filled with love, laughter and family. They raised their daughters in Saint Paul before making their home in Wyoming in 1978.

Fred was a hardworking man who owned and operated Action Chromate Inc. in North Branch for more than 26 years. But work was only one part of who Fred was. He knew how to enjoy life. He loved fishing, hunting, golfing and, as those who knew him best would say, raising a little hell. He loved being around people and never seemed to meet a stranger.

He had a great sense of humor, a quick wit and a genuine curiosity about the people and happenings around him. He liked to be in the know and could always be counted on to get the latest local “gossip” from his friends. He was the kind of guy who could make you laugh, give you a hard time and make you feel like an old friend—all in the same conversation.

Above all, Fred had an amazing heart. He loved his family deeply and was a loyal friend to many. He was simply a good guy—someone whose presence made life a little more fun and whose absence will be deeply felt. His sudden passing leaves an enormous hole in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Fred is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mildred Thatcher; and siblings, Robert, Wally and Jimmy Thatcher, JoAnne Hinna, Marlene Nelson, Millie Telschow and Alice Potvin.

He will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 56 years, Donna Thatcher; daughters, Stephanie (Todd) Leckie and Mindy (Mitchell) Kisling; grandchildren, Brandon Leckie and Miranda Kisling; siblings, Georganne Thatcher, Cheri (Donald) McKinnon and Gloria Schmidt; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Fred will be remembered for his humor, his stories, his friendships, his generous heart and his ability to make life a little more interesting. He will be very, very missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

No formal services will be held.