Ferdinand Ralph Huschka

Ferdinand "Fred" Huschka, 94, went to be with his Lord and savior on September 24, 2026 while in a peaceful and loving environment in Tumwater, Washington.

Fred was born on December 13, 1931, to Andrew and Anna (Krushensky) Huschka, as one of thirteen kids. He grew up on the family farm in Belfield, North Dakota. The connection he had with his siblings was deep and admirable. They would always prioritize annual family gatherings, traveling from long distances. The time spent together was full of love, laughter, food, drink, and of course cards.

Fred left Belfield in 1952, joining the Marine Corps getting stationed at Camp Pendleton, California. He was assigned to the base motor pool because he said he could fix anything. Challenged by his Sargent, he proved his abilities by rapidly repairing multiple vehicles including the base commanders jeep. After being honorably discharged, he returned to Dickinson, North Dakota, doing mechanic work in the area.

During this time, he met the love of his life, Angie, who became his wife on December 26, 1957. They started a wonderful life together, and a family, while in Dickenson. They moved to Powell, Wyoming in 1959 where Fred found his first job as a Chevrolet mechanic. His big move came in 1966 when Fred packed up the family and relocated to Ellensburg, Washington, the place he truly called home. He became the senior mechanic at Butterfield Chevrolet, and an icon throughout the area. He was known as the man who could fix anything, earning the mantle "Freddie Fix-it." He eventually moved to the Ellensburg City shop working on everything from dump trucks and road graders to Fords. He loved his job and finally retired in 1996.

Fred was an amazing husband, father, and provider. He always found a way to accomplish the hard things for his family. We all enjoyed the fruits of his labor; pickles, salsa, rhubarb wine, horseradish, and wonderful vegetables from his garden. He relaxed by enjoying camping, motorcycle riding, snowmobiling, golf, and gardening. When grandkids came onto the scene, he enjoyed playing grandpa, especially tickling and pestering them to tears of joy.

Fred and Angie celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary last December. The marriage brought 6 wonderful children, 11 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren; Pam (Jamison) Grover of Garrison Montana, Gary (Theresa) Huschka (Seth Huschka) of Pocatello Idaho, Ricky Huschka (passed away March 23, 1979), Sandi (Michael) Drennon (Kelsey, Trent, Mikey, Cody, Tawni, Brooke) of Tumwater Washington, Jodi Huschka (Jeremy, Shelby) of Crescent Bar Washington, Kristi (Cory) Berkram (Greta, Kellen) of Bozeman Montana.

He is preceded in death by his son Ricky Huschka, his parents, and his siblings; Leo Huschka, Clarence Huschka, Eleanor Huschka Czeck, Maggie Huschka, Rose Huschka Cook, Rolly Huschka, Willie Huschka.

Angie and the entire family would like to thank the many family, friends, and neighbors who loved Fred and called him "friend" during his lifetime. What a blessing you were to us all.

Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2026 at 1:00pm at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church at 401 South Willow Street Ellensburg, WA 98926. A private family graveside service will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.