Fred 'Speed' Burgess Schwab , 85, Velva, died Monday, August 6, 2012 in a Minot Hospital.

Fred was born June 19, 1927 at rural Simcoe, North Dakota, the son of Florence (Burgess) Schwab. He was raised by his aunt and uncle, Pearl & Kent Burgess and educated at Velva through the 11th grade. His family owned and operated the two Theatres in Velva until 1946 and later the Dairy Queen until 1949, at which Fred assisted the family with the operation of these businesses.

Fred was united in marriage to Twilla Smebak on July 2, 1960 at Minot. They made their home in Velva throughout the years, where he was employed with Waterman Motors as a mechanic working exclusively on Volkswagen for more than 26 years. He retired in 1985.

Fred's hobbies and interests included spending time in his garden, reading, visiting with friends and cars.

His loving family includes wife of fifty-two years, Twilla Schwab, Velva; sons, John (Dixie) Schwab, Dillsburg, PA and Bruce (Gail) Schwab, Sequim, WA.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, and his aunt and uncle, Pearl & Kent Burgess.

Celebration of Life service: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 11, 2012 at Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.
Interment: Velva Community Cemetery, Velva.
Visitation: Friday, August 10, 2012 from noon until 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva, ND.