Frederick William Ankenman

Frederick William (Fritz) Ankenman age 86, a long time resident of Lebanon Nebraska, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, May 16, 2008 after a long illness. He was living at the Brighton Gardens Nursing Home in Colorado Springs, CO at the time of his death.

He was born in Norcator, Kansas December 9, 1921 to Frederick and Gail Ankenman. To this union two sons were born. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage.

Fred joined the military during the Second World War and retired from the Air Force after 24 years service. During his distinguished career, he flew P-38 and P-47 fighter aircrafts in Europe during WW II. He also served in Korea during the Korean War. He had numerous other assignments. He was an instructor pilot on jet aircraft, a commercial transportation officer, and Transportation Squadron Commander. He retired from the Air Force in 1964 at the rank of Major. After his retirement, he became a Field Engineer for Winchester Arms Company building Trap & Skeet Gun Clubs throughout the western United States.

Fred loved hunting, fishing and shooting trap and skeet. His real enjoyment came from helping the people in his community.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Frederick and Gail Ankenman; his wife, Laverne; one grandson, Terry Ankenman; two sisters, Aril and Hildred; and one brother, Kenneth.

Survivors include his two sons, Larry Ankenman and wife, Bella and Terry Ankenman; grandson, Larry Ankenmen, Jr.; granddaughter, Marlys and husband, Mike; and great-grandsons, Michel, Matthew, Marcus, and Frederick and wife, Lenore.

Memorials were to be given in his name.

Funeral services were Thursday, May 29, 2008, 10:00 a.m. at Carpenter Breland Chapel with Jerry Beckenhauer officiating. Burial took place in the Lebanon Cemetery with military honors.