Fredrick Daniel "Fred" Ring

Fredrick “Fred” Daniel Ring, 81, of Lake City, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, July 6, 2026, after a lengthy illness. He was born in Lebanon, Virginia, on August 5, 1944, to the late Fred Ring and Louise Ketron Ring. He has a surviving aunt, Rita Jo Banner of Castlewood, Virginia. He has made Lake City his home since 1967. Fred was a Vietnam War Veteran serving in the United States Army’s 101st Airborne Division and 173rd Airborne Brigade. He was awarded a medal for heroism. He worked for over 50 years as a non-destructive testing technician in the Aviation field. Fred was not Lakota by birth, but he carried a deep respect for Lakota tradition, culture, and history in his heart. he listened with humility, learned with sincerity, and treated everyone with honor. He also understood that true friendship is built on respect, and he gave that freely. Fred enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, including going to Native American pow-wow’s. He was a gifted craftsman with a talent for beadwork. Fred was passionate about Pontiacs and owned several over the years. Fred was a kind soul, and he welcomed people without judgment, offered help without asking for anything in return, and had a gentle spirit that made others feel seen and valued. His compassion reached across cultures and communities, reminding us that the heart knows no boundaries.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 23 years, Diana Ring of Lake City; sons, Preston Ring (JiaJia) of Fort Carson, CO, Scott Trepanier of St. Petersburg, FL and Marc Trepanier of London, England; daughter, Krystle Guynn (Cody) of Lake City; brother, Richard Ring (Pam) of Lake City and his sisters, Phyllis Porter of Cairo, GA and Ann Peterson (Gary) of Waynesville, NC. Four grandchildren, Connor Ring, Hailey Guynn, Madeline Guynn, and Benjamin Guynn, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A memorial gathering will be conducted on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home. The family will have a memorial service at 2:00 P.M. in St. James Episcopal Church, with a reception to follow at the church. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.