Fred W. Stephenson, 71, lifetime resident of Coeur d'Alene, passed away at Kootenai Medical Center on March 25, 2013.?

Fred was born in Coeur d'Alene on March 1, 1942, to Fred L. and Charlotte (Northway) Stephenson. He grew up and spent his entire life in Coeur d'Alene.?He married Kay Earnest on April 16, 1962, in Bonners Ferry, and last year they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

?Fred was a kindhearted man, always willing to lend a helping hand. His passion was working on cars and he did auto body repair for “Fred's Garage.” Later he worked for State Farm as an Insurance Estimator.

?He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Kay Stephenson of Coeur d'Alene; three children, Candace Leitz of Puyallup, Wash., Fred J. of Boise, and Karla and Brad Gehlen of Kuna; one brother, Irving of Coeur d'Alene; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.?Fred is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Burt and son-in-law Tim Leitz.

?Memorials may be made in Fred's name to Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden, ID 83835.?A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2013, at English Funeral Chapel, 1133 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene. ?English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d'Alene, has been entrusted to handle final arrangements. Please visit Fred's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.