Peter James Frederick of West Des Moines, Iowa, peacefully passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 82.
Peter was born on July 3, 1942, in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, to Marge and Jim Frederick. He was the oldest of six children and grew up in Garner, Iowa. His siblings include Joan Neilson (Clear Lake, Iowa), Mary McCoy (West Des Moines, Iowa), David Frederick (Mason City, Iowa), Tom Frederick (Forest City, Iowa), and the late Jim Frederick (Fertile, Iowa). Peter graduated from Garner High School, where he was involved in photography for the school and also served as the town photographer. One of Peter’s fondest memories was capturing images at the legendary 1959 Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper concert in Clear Lake, Iowa-the day the music died.
His love for photography and cinema would continue throughout his life. Peter managed and later owned movie theaters and video stores throughout the state of Iowa. His pride and joy in the theater business never waned, and he loved sharing his experiences with others. In addition to his passion for movies, Peter had a strong spiritual side, which led him to become a Benedictine Monk later in life. His faith remained an essential part of his life, and he was a devoted member of The Basilica of St. John’s in Des Moines.
Peter also had a great love for spending time with his friends and family, traveling, and cooking. He was known as “The Tomato Whisperer” by his children, as his homegrown tomatoes were legendary.
Peter is survived by his three children and their spouses: John Frederick (Janice Frederick) of Furlong, Pennsylvania; Sarah Frederick (Jason Drautz) of Englewood, Colorado; and Ann Frederick (Matt Panagiotis) of Culver City, California. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Holden Frederick, Delia Frederick, Felicity Frederick, Moses Drautz, Quinn Panagiotis, and Riley Panagiotis.
Peter was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife Marian, who passed away in 2020.
The family extends its heartfelt thanks to the staff at Glen Oaks Alzheimer’s Special Care Center in Urbandale, Iowa, for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. https://act.alz.org/site/TR?pxfid=934740&fr_id=1060&pg=fund&et=_Rzw_mF3k5NlG-yeaItzGwIspVb7Dt-NUf_ofvDML2Zn8KmrE-dPOA&s_tafId=1910
Peter’s jovial disposition and big smile will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
