Frederick J. Stanford

NORWALK — Frederick J. "Fritz the Clown" Stanford, 84, of Norwalk, passed away Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, in Stein Hospice, Sandusky.He was born Jan. 23, 1933, in Norwalk, to Leslie L. and Mabel M. (Salabank) Stanford, and was a lifelong area resident.Fred was a 1951 graduate of Norwalk High School, and attended Oberlin Business College. He was a member of the Norwalk First United Methodist Church, and was a 60 year member and past master of Mount Vernon Lodge 64, Norwalk.He was well known as "Fritz the Clown" and had been clowning since 1961. He was a member of the Clown Club of North West Ohio. Fred was a former member of the Shoe String Players, and was a former usher at the Norwalk Theatre.In his youth he worked at the Isaly's Ice Cream Shop, and had also worked at Fanny Farmer Candy Company, the Norwalk Reflector, and was a crossing guard for the Norwalk Police Department. Fred enjoyed Norwalk history, Ohio State football, and Norwalk and St. Paul High School football.He is survived by his children, Martha Ann (Jerry) Perry of Norwalk, and Mark L. Stanford of Norwalk; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two step grandchildren; and eight step great-grandchildren.Fred was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth E. Stanford in 2009; sister, Margaret Hazelwood; step-sister, Francis Joseph; and a step grandchild.Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 26, at Walker Funeral Home, 98 W. Main St., Norwalk. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at Norwalk First United Methodist Church, 60 W. Main St., Norwalk, the Rev. Dr. Brian Oglesbee will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be made to the Norwalk First United Methodist Church, or to Stein Hospice Service, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870.Condolences may be made by going to edwalkerfuneralhome.com.