Fred R. Beronja

January 14, 1948 – August 26, 2025

Fred R. Beronja, 77, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. He was born January 14, 1948, to Samuel and Marilyn (Minier) Beronja. Fred graduated from Springfield High School before attending Western Michigan University, where he studied history education. He later began a 32-year career with the Kellogg Company.

A lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and an avid golfer, Fred could often be found on the golf course— either playing a round himself or teaching the next generation the fundamentals of the game. He shared his passion as head coach at Pennfield High School for many years and more recently as a coach at Harper Creek High School. Fred was also a longtime instructor for the First Tee program, helping young players build both their skills and character through the game of golf. Fred was a devoted member of St. Elias Eastern Orthodox Church, where he served as church board president.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Marilyn, and his sister, Kay Lynn. Fred is survived by his loving wife of more than 50 years, Debbie (Knapp); his sons, Gabriel (Cindy) Beronja and Nathan (Jennifer) Beronja; his brother, Thomas (Agnes) Beronja; his grandchildren, Dreyma, Jake, Tyler, Zachary, and Amanda; and several nephews, nieces, and cousins. He will be deeply missed by extended family, friends, and the many students and athletes whose lives he touched.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek where a Panikhida service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services for Fred will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at the St. Elias Eastern Orthodox Church, Battle Creek. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Ashton West Cemetery, Le Roy, MI. Memorial contributions in honor of Fred may be made to St. Elias Eastern Orthodox Church, 5066 B Drive South, Battle Creek, MI 49014. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.