Friday, November 6, 2026
Fred Shinn, born in Chicago to Frederick and Frances Shinn, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. He spent his early childhood in Lake Wales, Florida, alongside his younger brothers, Doug and Brian.
A man of great intellect and service, Fred received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and his master’s degree in finance from Dartmouth College. He proudly served as a Captain in the United States Army before embarking on a distinguished 35-year career with the Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa), where he rose to become the Head of International Finance.
Fred was married to the love of his life, Joy Kukla Shinn, for 53 years until her passing on January 31, 2011. Following their retirement to Marco Island, Florida, Fred leaned into his passions as an avid pilot and sailor, logging many hours in the air and on the water. He founded the Marco Island Yacht Club, serving as its Commodore, and co-founded both the Marco Island Film Festival and the Marco Island Players.
In 2005, Fred and Joy moved to Sedona, Arizona, where they remained deeply civic-minded, co-founding both the Sedona Police Volunteer Program and the Sedona Police Field Support Unit, in which Fred completed over 500 prisoner transports. As a dedicated volunteer, Fred also served on the Board of the Sedona Airport Authority. Fred found great joy in the arts, performing with the Sedona Showstoppers and composing songs that honored the United States, his beloved Sedona, the police force, and his late wife, Joy.
Fred was known for his witty and inspirational sayings, affectionately called “Threads from Fred.” His iconic line, “Put a giggle in your heart,” truly said it all.
Fred was loved by all who were touched by his generosity, common sense, and unwavering patriotism. He is survived by his beloved partner, Terrie Frankel, also of Sedona; daughter, Debra Shinn of Sedona; son, Kurt Shinn of Minneapolis; and grandsons, Maxwell Shinn (London, UK) and Mason Shinn (Chicago, Illinois). He is also survived by his in-laws, Stan and Celeste Kukla of Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Kris and George Harrison of Griffin, Georgia. Fred was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all.
Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
April 16, 2026 Coastal Breeze News
