Fred B. McCracken

In Loving Memory of Fred B. McCracken (1932-2024)

On January 12, 2024, we bid farewell to a remarkable man, Fred B. McCracken, who peacefully left this world at the age of 91. Fred's journey began in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he was born, raised, and eventually passed.

After graduating from Albuquerque High, Fred's adventurous spirit took him to Alaska for a summer of working on fishing boats. Earning enough money to get himself back to join the Air Force that paved the way for him to secure a degree in Mechanical Engineering. It was during his time at UNM that Fred (Known as 'Rico' then) embraced leadership as the president of the SAE fraternity.

Two enduring passions blossomed during those university years-his love for Betty Graham and the sport of tennis. There he earned the coveted Letterman's sweater in tennis. His commitment to Betty grew stronger with time, creating the foundations of life well-lived for both.

In the early years of marriage, Fred's career journey began as Mechanical Engineer for James A. Knowles & Associates and that took the McCracken family to various corners of the country. His first son David was born in Yuma AZ, 4 years later, his daughter Patty was born in Albuquerque NM, and 3 years later his son Robert was born in Phoenix AZ. Fueled by his entrepreneurial spirit, Fred eventually founded McCracken & Associates, his own Mechanical Engineering company in the East Bay Area, specializing in designing air-conditioning systems for schools, hospitals, and large organizations. He ran that business for 32 years, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

For 32 years, Piedmont, California, became the backdrop to the McCracken family's story. Fred's passion for tennis soared, earning him the impressive rank of 16th in California. It was a place where their children-David, Patty, and Robert-were nurtured, and lifelong memories were forged. He was a long-time member of the Berkeley Tennis club and later joined the Claremont Country club where he enjoyed both tennis and golf with his peers. His favorite 'time-out' would be to go fly-fishing, backpacking, and camping next to a body of water. His wife turned him onto skiing, which then became a family favorite sport. As a family, we hold dear memories of vacations with family friends at Tahoe, Aptos, Sea Ranch, Newport beach, and later Australia where he could be near his grandchildren on their farm.

In the year 2000, Fred and Betty returned to their roots in Albuquerque, NM, enjoying the view of the Sandia Mountain Range and the Rio Grande River. Retirement became a chapter of new beginnings, with Fred immersing himself in the joy of barbershop singing with the New Mexicords, perfecting his golf swing, and savoring the simple pleasures of life.

Fred B. McCracken will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but for the love he shared with his family, the lessons he imparted, and his easy-going nature about taking one day at a time and doing 'the best we can.' As we mourn his passing, let us celebrate the legacy of a man whose warmth, wisdom, and unwavering spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

He leaves behind his dear wife, Betty G. McCracken; daughter, Patty McCracken; son, Robert McCracken; grandson, Daniel Fulloon; and granddaughter, Emma Fulloon.

A graveside service will be held Friday, April 26, 2024, 12:00 p.m., at Fairview Memorial Park, 700 Yale Blvd. SE.

Rest in peace, dear Fred, and may your memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.