Obituary of Fred Toler

Fred Toler, a cherished father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother-in-law, and uncle passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2020, at the age of 85. A life to be celebrated and reflected upon, preceded in death by his parents Fred and Frances Toler and his loving wife of 57 years, Doris Neal Toler. Fred leaves behind many lives he is touched with his kindness, empathy, laughter, integrity, and grace. He reflected lovingly on his earliest years with his parents in Sweetwater, Texas. Often visiting the large extended family in Dallas/Ft. Worth area. In 1939 his father moved the family to Harlingen, Texas. His best memories include surf fishing with his dad on South Padre Island while his mother collected seashells for her art projects. He would comb the beach for washed up K-rations, just to get the chunk of Hersey’s chocolate sealed inside. Growing up, Fred enjoyed going to work with his father at Sears-Roebuck. He attended Harlingen High School where his artistic talent for woodworking and leather tooling won awards and recognition. While working at the Arcadia theatre a good friend encouraged him to meet “the most beautiful girl” working the soda fountain counter at the San Benito drug store. Fred met and later married Doris Neal the love of his life. Doris encouraged Fred’s creative talents and gave him painting lessons for his birthday. Painting was something he would return to throughout his lifetime. His series on the Texas Navy ships are displayed at the San Jacinto Museum of History. The time Fred spent in the U.S. Navy alongside a crew of people from across the country helped shape his diversified perspective. He always enjoyed traveling and experiencing different cultures. His patience and acceptance for people helped him to have a successful career in law enforcement. Fred started his law enforcement career in Harlingen, Texas as a police officer. After seven years he left Harlingen to become the Chief of Police in Kingsville, Texas. Fred pursued his career further by moving to Austin as a Training Program Coordinator with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards & Education (TCLEOSE). After four years and finishing his degree in Business Administration at St. Edwards University he was chosen as the second TCLEOSE Executive Director. Following a rewarding career in which he was highly respected in the law enforcement community, he retired and became a training consultant traveling the nation. Later Fred and son Chris both craftsmen launched Toler & Toler Productions specializing in woodwork on sail and motorboats. Fred went to his shop on Lake Travis every day and continued to work right up until his illness. Fred loved to be supportive and involved in many events. Faith in God brought him comfort, purpose, and hope. Constant throughout his journey was Family. A cheerful participant in any meal Doris prepared. A wonderful Dad full of patience and love. Loved family gatherings at Dale & Sharon’s and Father’s Day breakfast at Chris & Jenny’s. Always attended any event involving grandchildren, great-grandchildren. Loved going to Alice & Carl’s to hear Ella & Grace play the violin and cello. Enjoyed the Sunday church services, seated in the same spot where he & Doris had sat. Staying active and kept his mind alert by reading, taking on-line courses, attending the symphony, visiting museums, and walking the mall. He will be greatly missed and, in our hearts, always. Left to cherish his memory are his son Dale Toler and spouse Sharon, daughter Ava Palatiere, son Chris Toler and spouse Jenny, Alice & Carl Pearson, Patsy and Dwayne Moore, grandchildren Garret Toler, Leigh-Ann Lucas and spouse Colin, Reid Palatiere and Sarah Toler. As well as two great-grandchildren Dylan and Valerie Lucas. A Celebration of Life service will be held for Fred on Sunday, June 27th at 1:00pm Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 West Broadway, Pearland, Texas