Fred William Luethke, Jr.

Fred William Luethke Jr., a beloved husband, father, brother, and esteemed pilot, passed away on April 14, 2024, in Kingsport, TN at the age of 88. Born on January 5, 1936, in Knoxville, TN, Fred dedicated his life to serving his God and his country in the US Air Force, excelling in his role as a pilot.

After graduating from Knox Central High school, Fred entered the service at age 17. His passion for flying took him to great heights both in his career and personal life. 

During his 20+ years of service to the US Air Force, Fred served in Vietnam as a forward air controller. He was also instrumental in the development of the C-141 Starlifter. Fred rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, earning the confidence and respect of the men he served with.

He married Joyce Van Sickel in 1955 and started a family. After 20 years and one day, Fred retired from the Air Force and the family moved to East Tennessee settling in the Oak Glen community near Fall Branch.

In the private sector, Fred served as the plant manager of the Amerace Corporation in Piney Flats, TN. Later, Fred and Joyce moved to middle Tennessee settling in Lebanon and serving as the East Coast Logistics Manager for Aladdin Corporation.

Following, the death of his beloved Joyce, Fred married Sue Miller Luethke in 1996, building a house and settling back in East Tennessee in Sullivan Gardens. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and, later, the Glenwood Campus of Indian Springs Baptist Church. Fred was actively involved in the children's ministry and was a Vacation Bible School MVP!

Fred was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life and could build anything with his hands. He loved His Lord and his family and served them well.

A man of honor and valor, Fred was known for his unwavering commitment to his fellow servicemen and his family. His strength, courage, and kindness touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce Ann Luethke; sisters, Elizabeth Ballweber, Judy Faithauer; brothers, Dan Luethke and John Luethke.

Survivors include wife, Sue Luethke of the home; daughter, Lynn Luethke of the home; sons, Ronald William Luethke of Bridgeport, WV, James Michael Luethke of Denver, CO, Gary Allen Luethke of Oakton, VA and Jeff Luethke of Kingsport; grandchildren, Van Luethke, Dan Luethke, Emily Luethke, Tim Luethke, Matt Huerta, Katie Huerta, Allen Luethke, Davis Luethke, Danielle Luethke, Caroline Luethke, Graham Luethke, Ellie Brooks; great-grandchildren, Wendall Luethke, Gordon Luethke, Penelope Luethke, Peyton Luethke; brother, Larry David Luethke of Ft. Worth, TX; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 4:00-6:00pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Funeral services will be conducted at 6:00pm in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Tiger Brooks officiating.