Fred Lee Tando

Fred Lee Tando, age 91, departed this life on Saturday, October 10, 2015 to join his wife of 54 years, Audrey, who was waiting for him. Fred was born April 7, 1924 in Joplin, the son of Jesse and Sarah (Blankenship) Tando. Fred joined the Army Air Corps at an early age serving as a medic, during World War II, in china, Burma, and India. He later joined the Army serving in Korea, Europe, and various bases stateside. He served for 22 years and retired Master Sergeant and settled in Nixa in 1965. On June 6, 1953 he married Audrey Virginia Beason. Together they raised four children. He was a Master Mason, a member of Friend Lodge, Ozark, for over 50 years where he served in several positions including Worshipful Master. He was also a member of the Fairview Antique Auto Club where he and Audrey enjoyed monthly meetings and parades. He loved working with other members on their cars and restoring his own 1918 Dodge. Survivors include two sons Gregory Tando, of Aurora, and Jeffrey Tando, of Springfield; a daughter Pamela Williams and husband Joe of Boaz; five grandchildren, Tina Tando, Sara Ferguson, Lucas Williams, Jesse Tando and Lindsey Tando; three great grandchildren Emma Ferguson, Lola Williams, and Atticus Tando. Fred is preceded in death by his parents; eight siblings; his loving wife Audrey; and a son Gary Dean. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2015 in Adams Funeral Home, Nixa. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home, following the visitation. The family would like to thank the caring staff at the Missouri Veterans Home in St. James and Mt. Vernon for the wonderful treatment they showed Fred. Memorial donation in lieu of flowers may be made to his favorite charity, Children's Miracle Network, 3525 S. National Ave. Ste. 203 Springfield, Missouri 65807.