Frederick W. ("Fred Wayne") Marentic

Frederick W. Marentic, “Fred Wayne”, age 78, of Winter Haven, FL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 with his loving family close by his side.

Fred is survived by his wife of 20 years, Alfreda (nee Grandison) Marentic; his sons, Anthony, Frederick II, David and Daniel; daughters, Laura, Karen, Kimberly, Stephanie, Alyssa and Fermine Lenia, as well as numerous grandchildren, cousins, Gordon & Charlotte Millerin; best friend, Robert Duda and a host of many dear friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph J. & Theresa (Lilek) Marentic.

Fred was born in Joliet and attended St. Joseph Catholic Grade School and Joliet Catholic High School.

Fred retired as a teacher from the Chicago Public Schools Fine Arts Department after 37 years of service. He was a member of the Chicago Federation of Musicians, Joliet Federation of Musicians – Local #37, Slovenian Union of America, and a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Fred Wayne wrote over 7000 musical arrangements in his lifetime. He played, taught and arranged music for Count Basie, Derek David of the Platters, Woody Herman, Helen Reddy, Marlena Shaw and Saxophonist Sonny Stitt. He also wrote for Frank Sinatra, Jr. and Dizzy Gillespie.

Fred was most proud of the influence his musical skills had on the youth he taught as well as some of his own children. Fred was named Chicago Teacher of the Year in 1970, and appeared on the Ray Rayner Show with his school band in 1972.

A celebration of Frederick W. Marentic’s life will begin on Saturday, July 8, 2017 with prayers in the funeral home chapel at 9:20 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet for a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, July 7, 2017 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.