Frederick Carlton Cuddeback

Fred Cuddeback, born April 8, 1957, passed away September 28th 2026 surrounded by the love and memories of family and friends. He lived a life defined by hard work, a deep love for the outdoors, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Born to Glen and Betty Cuddeback, Fred was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. From an early age, he developed a passion for the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life. As a young boy, he survived a frightening experience after accidentally stepping on a beehive and suffering hundreds of stings over much of his body. The incident nearly claimed his life, but it revealed the resilience and strength that would characterize him for years to come.

Fred was first married to Cindy McEwan, with whom he shared 20 years of marriage and raised their children: Josh, Justin, Jeremy, and Jill. During this chapter of his life, the family moved to Walla Walla, Washington, where Fred worked for a landscaping company and as a groundskeeper at a local cemetery.

In the late 1990s, Fred moved to Missoula Montana, where he continued his landscaping career with Ibey Irrigation. It was there that he met his soul mate and love of his life, Dolly Cuddeback. Together, they built a life filled with adventure, family, and cherished memories. Through this marriage, Fred proudly became a stepfather to Tim and Justin Tepp.

Throughout his years in Montana, Fred worked as a landscaper as well as a snow groomer for Snowbowl. No matter where life took him, he was happiest outdoors. Hunting, fishing, biking and spending time with Dolly’s brothers Tim, Chuck, And Eric Ibey at hunting camp brought him great joy. Many summers were spent in Seeley Lake with Dolly, where they enjoyed camping, boating, fishing, playing board and card games and creating treasured memories with their grandchildren.

Fred had a deep love for music and enjoyed playing the guitar. Whether strumming favorite songs at home, around a campfire, or simply playing for family and friends, music brought him joy and peace. His guitar was another way he expressed himself, and those who knew him will remember the melodies, laughter, and good times that often accompanied his playing.

Fred also enjoyed gardening and raising chickens. He spent many years creating a magnificent garden at his home alongside Dolly, taking great pride in the beauty they cultivated together. The garden became a reflection of Fred's patience, hard work, and appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Fred is preceded in death by his parents, his older brother, Barrett, and his older sister, Muffitt.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Dolly Cuddeback; his twin sister, Lisa Hefty; his children, stepchildren, and fourteen grandchildren Travis and Allison Cuddeback, Elizabeth, Kloie, and Seelie Cuddeback. Levi, Ben, and Joy Cuddeback. Alicia, Luke, and Ethen Tepp. Ryder, Elliot and Olivia Tepp. As well as many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

Those who knew Fred will remember a man who found peace in the outdoors, worked hard, loved deeply, and treasured the time he spent with family. His stories, laughter, and love for hunting camp, fishing trips, backyard gardens, and family gatherings will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to share in his life's journey. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the countless memories he created along the way.

A memorial celebration of his life will be held in late spring of 2027, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and the lasting impact he had on those who knew and loved him.

Forever loved, forever remembered.