Fred M. Pfaff

Fred Pfaff of Chagrin Falls passed away on January 17, 2025 at age 66. Insidious esophageal cancer brought him down in a few short weeks, but he died a Success and would not have changed a thing.

Born on October 20, 1958 and raised in Mantua, Ohio, Fred became a stable boy for thoroughbreds while acing Crestwood High School’s academics - challenging them to create new courses. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Chess Club, Quiz Team, and won State Superior at the District Science Fair.

His strong work ethic was key to his stubborn independence and prosperity. He leaves a legacy of thousands of inventions and countless creations in both metal and wood. His proudest accomplishment is the all-loop, almost uncloggable, industrial conveyor he ingeniously engineered for his company Swagelok.

Using his woodworking skills and knowledge, he breathed new life into a dilapidated house, purchased in 1982 and paid off in sixteen years, and was his own architect for the renovation of the barn, circa 1860. Gardening was his lifelong passion having earned a feature in the Chagrin Falls Garden Tour one year.

A polka aficionado, as per his German heritage, Fred bought his own accordion, took lessons, and formed a band with his brother John on the banjo and friend Del on drums. The band was named Freddy Pfaff and the Johndels. He and Tricia were regulars at Oktoberfests, sweeping the dance floor to the oompah-pah and imbibing German beer.

His cigar habit probably began at the Ring The Bell game at the county fair. Each time he rang the bell, he was given a cigar even though he was only 16. He rang the bell until he had a pocketful of cigars.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 40 years to Tricia (nee Taggart) Pfaff, his sister Heather Voss and brother John (Bridget), a nephew, three nieces, and seven great nieces/nephews. Fred was preceded in death by his sister Heidi and his parents Elmer and Hilda. 

The family will receive friends from 2-4 PM. Sunday January 26 with a service at 4 PM at Kindrich-McHugh Steinbauer Funeral Home 33375 Bainbridge Rd., Solon, Ohio 44139. Donation suggestions to Cleveland Animal Protective League or Rescue Village. ARRANGEMENTS BY STROUD~LAWRENCE FUNERAL HOME, CHAGRIN FALLS, OH. www.stroudlawrence.com

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