Fred L. Meister, 89, formerly of Chillicothe, died at 2:20 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008, at his home.

Born May 13, 1919, in Peoria to George and Charlette Gauwitz Meister, he married Mary Berry Nov. 13, 1944, in Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are one son, George (Nancy) Meister of Hopewell; one daughter, Margaret Meister of Boulder, Colo.; one daughter-in-law, Linda of Pine Bluff, Ark.; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one son, Dr. John Meister, and one sister, Charlette Shane.

He was a World War II veteran, serving with the Navy Seabees in England, France, the South Pacific and the Philippines.

He established Meister and Shane with his brother-in-law, Nelson Shane, serving as the president and co-owner from 1946-82.

He also served as past commander of American Legion Post 9, Cub Scout Pack 157 leader, usher at First United Methodist Church and director of First National Bank of Chillicothe.

He was a member of the Chillicothe Fire Department for 48 years, serving as deputy chief.

He was instrumental in forming the Chillicothe Community Fire Department in 1953, serving as president of the board of directors from the mid-1950s to 1990.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and services will be at First United Methodist Church at a later date.

Lenz Services of Lacon is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the Chillicothe Community Fire Department or First United Methodist Church.