James Frederick "Fred" Byrne was born August 30, 1913 in DeGraff, Minnesota, the son of John J. and Susan S. (Duggan) Byrne. He was called from this life on Friday afternoon, February 18th, 2011 at the St. Cloud Hospital. He attained the age of 97 years, 5 months and 18 days. Fred was baptized and confirmed into the Catholic Faith at St. Bridget's Catholic Church in DeGraff. He grew up in the DeGraff area and graduated from Benson High School in 1932. Fred farmed in the DeGraff area and served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed on Attu in the Aleutians Islands. On May 20, 1948, Fred was united in marriage to Helen D. Manney at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock. To this union, three daughters were born. Together, Fred and Helen were able to share in 55 years of marriage. Fred continued farming north of DeGraff until 1960 when they moved into town. Fred was a rural mail carrier in DeGraff for 19 years and retired in 1979. Fred was a life long member of St. Bridget's Catholic Church in DeGraff and was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 71 years. He and Helen spent several weeks during the winter in San Diego, CA. Among the things he enjoyed were dancing, reading, water skiing, chocolate and spending time with his family. Fred is survived by his daughters: Jean Byrne of Mendota Heights, MN, Sister Lois Byrne of Willmar, MN and Teres Byrne of San Diego, CA; two sisters: Sister Katherine Byrne of Hubbardston, MA and Louise Bouta of St. Louis Park, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Fred was preceded in death by his parents: John and Susan Byrne; his wife: Helen Byrne in 2003; two brothers: John Byrne and Father Albert Byrne.
