Alfred S. “Fred” VanDeusen Jr., aged 78, passed away at home in Alford on January 24, 2026.
Fred was kind and generous, always being the first to offer a helping hand, never expecting anything in return. He found joy in other people’s happiness. Fred was a very social man and loved to sit and chat. He had the amazing ability to repair almost anything, at times designing and creating his own parts or tools. He worked hard to make sure his family was always taken care of and was very proud to have served his country.
Fred enlisted in the United States Navy in 1966 during the Vietnam War. Beginning as a Boiler Technician Fireman Apprentice (BTFA) responsible for operation and maintenance of steam boilers/steam propulsion. He tells the story of what his instructor said upon completion of his engineering classes: “Well, you have the knowledge to fix it, but there won’t be any tools on the ship; good luck!” That was the truth. When they came into port, they would trade coffee or other goods for tools. This was the start of his quick and creative thinking. He served aboard the USS Leonard F. Mason and the USS Joseph Strauss. He was honorably discharged in 1972.
Fred married Linda Clark in 1970 and started his family. Even after divorce, he held a special place in his heart for Linda.
Soon after, Fred began his career at Harland B Foster Inc., using his skills as a boiler tech for almost 40 years until his retirement.
In 1978, Fred and his father built (from the ground up) the family home in Alford, where he raised his children and spent his remaining years.
Fred was a member of the Alford Volunteer Fire Department, spent time plowing snow for the Alford Highway Department, and was a member of the James A. Modolo VFW Post #8348.
Fred was predeceased by his parents, Alfred VanDeusen Sr. and Eleanor Beers; his brother Dr. Paul VanDeusen, and his nephew Daryl. He is survived by his sisters, Phyllis Tumsaroch (Lex) of Wilmington, Mass., and Joan VanDeusen of New Hampshire; his children, Stacey VanDeusen of Sheffield and Mac VanDeusen (April) of West Stockbridge; his grandchildren, Jordan, Andrew, and Calynn; his great-granddaughter Madison; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Fred valued his many friendships and truly appreciated everyone in his life: Carl (Arlene) VanDeusen, Carolyn Caul, Dale Martin (family and Friday night dinner club), Chris (Amy and Emma) Brooks, Sally Leonard, Tom Southergill, Mike (Roxanne) Germain, Judy Durlack, John Bailey, veterans’ advocate Tom Beasley, and everyone at the GBVFW.
In keeping with Fred’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. A celebration of life will follow immediately at the Great Barrington VFW, 800 South Main Street, Great Barrington.
