Frederick J. Lentz, Jr.

Frederick J. Lentz, Jr., 76, of Dunkirk, passed away at home following a brief illness with his loving wife and family by his side Friday morning, June 5, 2026. Born in Dunkirk on December 30, 1949, he was the husband of Cathleen (Kucmierz) Lentz and son of the late Frederick J. Lentz Sr. and Rose (Albertine) Lentz.

A graduate of Dunkirk High School, he went on to honorably serve in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972, spending 13 months stationed in Korea.

Freddie devoted four decades of his professional life to Purina, where he worked as a Utility Operator before retiring in 2013.

Beyond his career, Freddie had a remarkable talent for building and crafting. He found joy and pride in working with tools. Among his proudest accomplishments was the pole barn he had constructed. In his younger days, he earned distinction by winning a General Motors Car of the Future competition with a wooden car he built, showcasing his innovative spirit and dedication from an early age. Alongside his building projects, Freddie had a deep love for music, and he collected model airplanes and Lionel Trains.

He was a parishioner of the Blessed Mary Angela Church of St. Hedwig.

Freddie's family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Kate and Heather from Hospice for their exceptional care of Freddie, as well as Marcia and Bob Henderson and any neighbors for all of their help around the house.

Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years, Cathleen (Kucmierz) Lentz and his sister-in-law Marcia (Robert) Henderson. He is also survived by his niece Anne Marie (Brian) Switzer of Niskayuna, NY and nephew Jeffrey (Mary) Henderson of Stephenville, TX, several aunts and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Funeral services will be held in private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY.