Frederick John Niethamer Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Hayes, Virginia, on May 15, 2026 at the age of 79.
Born on November 11, 1946, in Washington, D.C., Fred lived a life defined by devotion to family, curiosity, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. Family was always his highest priority, and he loved them all deeply and completely.
Fred proudly served his country in the United States Army for three years, including a tour in Korea. Following his military service, he built a successful career as a wholesale tour operator, helping travelers discover destinations throughout the Caribbean Islands and Mexico. He was known for his knowledge, personality, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
A lifelong coin collector, Fred’s passion began in the second grade and continued throughout his life. Over the years, he became highly respected for his research and analysis of coins, generously sharing his expertise with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Fred’s heart belonged to the Outer Banks barrier islands, especially his beloved beach box on Woodmere Avenue, which he considered his true happy place. He found peace in fishing, walking the shoreline in search of sea glass and seashells, and spending time with his cherished beach family. He also volunteered with Save the Turtles, reflecting his love for the coast and its wildlife.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Julia Ann Tinsley and Frederick John Niethamer Sr.; his great-nephew, Gavin Blaine Vest; his brother-in-law, Jeffrey Allen Sullivan; and his sister-in-law, Ann Tudor Dickerson.
Fred is survived by his loving wife, Jane Ellen Dickerson Whitmore; his sons, Ryan Michael and Jason Tinsley (Tapleigh); and his treasured granddaughters, Hayden Leigh and Leah Ellen. He is also survived by his sisters, Victoria Niethamer Sullivan and Kathy Niethamer Jones (Glenn); his sister-in-law, Sandra Dickerson Carter (Jim); his brother-in-law, Jim Dickerson (Jackie); nephews, James Carter Jr., Matthew Dickerson (Corri), Scott Jones (Celeste), and Brent Jones (Auburn); nieces, Kristie Jones Vest (Tadd), Kimberly Sullivan Rogers (Mitch), and Ashley Sullivan Marks (Ian); great-nephews, Keen Dickerson, Blaine Dickerson, and Camden Jones; great-nieces, Malayna Vest, Rylan Rogers, and Harper Rogers, and all of his beloved beach family and friends.
The family received friends at Hogg Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Bethany United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 11 a.m., conducted by Pastor John Choi, with a reception to follow. Burial with military honors will take place at Quantico National Cemetery in Quantico, Virginia, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11 a.m.
In memory of Fred, contributions may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church, 1860 Hayes Road, Gloucester Point, Va. 23062 or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCan), Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 5041, Boone, IA 50950-0041.
Fred will be remembered for his generous spirit, his love of family and friends, his passion for the beach, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him.
Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.