Fred Jay Wissell

Fred Jay Wissell of Walworth, Wisconsin stepped into glory on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

Born in Elkhorn, Wisconsin to James and Grace (Ardith) Wissell on January 16, 1950, Fred Jay lived most of his growing up years farming in Zenda, Wisconsin. A cowboy, Fred greatly enjoyed breaking and riding horses as well as raising pigs. Blessed with natural athletic abilities, he would spend much of his time participating in sports. Fred played semi pro football for the Delavan Red Devils as well as coaching men's softball teams and his own sons sports teams. Running was always a passion  and one could often see him running early morning along the highway practicing for a 10K, marathon, shared triathlon, or solo triathlon.

In February of 1981 he married the love of his life, Gere. Together they came to know Jesus and loved natures beauty. Some highlights: they snow skied, camped and hiked Wisconsin State Parks, traveled the country, and enjoyed concerts together.

Serving as an Awana leader for years as well as the head usher at Woodstock Bible Church, Fred was always a helping hand available wherever he was needed. Providing a semi truck on a Saturday, delivering groceries to a needy family, or inviting a child or family to live with him, he willingly did so. 

Several years later Fred was a charter member of the thriving Grace Fellowship Church of Woodstock, Illinois. He was humbled to be asked to be part of the start up of the church at that time.

While most would have been looking to retire ,Fred began working at Calvary Community Church in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. He did odd jobs and maintenance, finding great joy and satisfaction in being part of the team. He also served as a deacon for six years and again as an Awana leader.

When asked by several oncologists during his brief treatment what mattered most to him, Fred's response was always the same "FAITH AND FAMILY". Those were not just words spoken, but truly ones he lived by. 

Proverbs 3:27 loosely paraphrased "Don't withhold good when you can do it!"

Fred is survived by his wife Gere, his six children and their spouses: Keri and Jason, Tami and Keith, Jay and Kyleen, Tanya, Larry and Becky and Jeff and Leila. 13 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren his siblings: Kathy and Gary, Jeanne and Ray, Nancy and Gary, and Chris, along with many numerous nephews and nieces will all remember and survive Fred. Fred was preceded in death by his parents James and Grace, his brothers Robert Wissell and Captain Lawerence James Wissell.

Service for Fred will be held on Sunday September 13th, 2026 at 3:00pm at Calvary Community Church. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 2:00pm.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy and support the family has asked that you make a donation in Fred's name to the Calvary Community Church Benevolent Fund.

To share a memory of Fred, or to express your sympathy to the Wissell family on the loss of Fred, please proceed to the bottom of the obituary under Guest Book where you can share you thoughts.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting Fred's family