Sauer, Frederick Joseph Fred 82, passed away on Jan. 3, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Preceded in death by his parents Otto & Martha Sauer; sister & brother-in-law Pat & Alan Peerless; brother Bud Sauer; & son-in-law Jim Evans. Fred is survived by his wife, Mary, of 59 years; siblings Mary L Sauer, Dorothy Benson, Robert (Connie) Sauer; his children Brian (Darcy) & Patsy, Mike (Carey) & Gretchen (Chris); grandchildren Alissa, Anna, Dominic, Donahue, Delaney, Will, Morgan & Sam; great grandchildren Jake, Caleb, Liliana, Carson, Sophia, Olivia & Jace; and many adoring cousins, nieces, nephews & their families. Fred grew up on a farm & stayed there until his father retired. He then worked for Tom Sawyer, Wilson and Schumacher Meat companies. He is best known for introducing the Hillshire Farms brand to the Minnesota and Dakota markets where he worked until he retired at 62. For the past 20 years, Fred & Mary have spent their time between Minnesota and Florida. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserves and was a patriotic supporter of the military. He was a devoted member of St. John The Baptist Catholic Church for over 50 years. Fred was truly a gift from God and those who knew him felt truly blessed. He was a humble and cheerful man, who was always welcoming. He only saw the best of people through those big glasses. Fred enjoyed "putzing around" in the garage & visiting with friends who would stop by. He particularly loved watching the boats going by from his deck and the sun setting from his porch. There are many friends in both Minnesota and Florida who will dearly miss Fred's presence, phone calls and greetings. A gathering will be held Jan. 23, 2018 from 4-7pm and Memorial Mass (with reception to follow) will be held Jan. 24, 2018 at 11am both at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church at 4625 W. 125th St, Savage. Fred's final resting place is at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Clearwater, Florida. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.