Fred grew up in Traverse City alongside his brother Richard, where he learned the values of hard work and family devotion. It was at his first job at Morgan’s Canning Company that he met the love of his life, Ulaine, buying her an ice cream on one of their earliest dates — a tradition they continued nearly every night throughout their marriage. Fred and Ulaine were married on June 30, 1956, and shared more than 60 years together until her passing in 2019.

They were blessed with five children: Cindy, Brenda, Wally Peplinski, Susan, and David Peplinski.

Fred dedicated 30 years of service to General Motors as a machine operator, where he was known for his strong work ethic. In his free time, he enjoyed tinkering with cars — especially his 1941 Chevy — and took great pride in keeping things just the way he liked them. Fred and Ulaine loved traveling in their motorhome, spending winters in Arizona and Florida, creating memories together.

A faithful member of St. Rita–St. Joseph Church in Maple City, Fred lived his life guided by faith and community. He was well known for his fondness for trinkets 1936 ~ 2026

and his unique flair for decorating his car, always bringing a smile to those who saw it. His warm heart, quiet humor, and devotion to family will be deeply missed.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lillian Peplinski; his beloved wife, Ulaine; his children Susan Jones and David Peplinski and Debra Peplinski; grandson Ryan Jones; granddaughter, Lisa Wall, and sons-in-law Robert Moser and Jeff Jones. He is survived by his children Cindy Moser, Brenda (Rich) Murnane, and Wally (Cheryl) Peplinski; brother Richard (Connie) Peplinski, grandchildren Daniel Wall and Debra Moeggenborg, Michael and Ashley Dietrich, Shawna and Brandon Murnane, Danielle Gauche, Taylor Peplinski, Heather Jones, David Combs, Cameron Macdonald, Hannah Wiedman, Taylor King, Donovan and Logan Moser; ten great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with a Rosary prayed at 7:00 p.m.

The Funeral Mass will take place Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Rita–St. Joseph Church in Maple City, beginning at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will follow the service.

A graveside committal will be held in the spring.