A native San Diegan, Fred graduated from San Diego State University. He served four years in the United States Air Force (USAF), including one year in Vietnam teaching English as a second language to pilot candidates, receiving the Air Force Commendation Medal. For almost three years, he served in Japan and Okinawa working in the outpatient psychiatric clinics of USAF hospitals.

In his 27 year tenure with the Union Tribune, Fred improved collection productivity more than 50% through employee training and new data systems. He is an active member of the National Association of Credit Manager and the Credit & Financial Development Division (CFDD). Fred served as chairman of the board of San Diego Credit Association and was an active board member for over a decade.

Fred serves on the Hillsborough County Historic Resources review Board, South Shore Regional Library “Friends of the Library”, and South Shore Arts Council. He is the founder and president of the Ruskin Community Development Foundation.