Dr. Fred P. Meyer

WEST SALEM, WI – Dr. Fred P. Meyer, 85, of West Salem died Friday, August 19, 2016 at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, WI.
Fred was born August 15, 1931 in Galva, IA to Rudolph and Anna (Weber) Meyer. He graduated from Galva High School, and went on to further his studies at the University of Northern Iowa, where he earned both his B.A. and Masters degrees, and Iowa State University, where he received his Ph.D.
Dr. Meyer worked for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for over 30 years, retiring as Director of the National Fisheries Research Center in La Crosse. Previously, he served as Chief of the Fish Farming Experimental Laboratory in Stuttgart, AR, as a research scientist studying environmental and fish health issues, a university instructor and a high school biology teacher.
Fred was a world-renowned authority on the recognition and treatment of fish diseases, on fish kills caused by environmental factors, and on the regulatory process involved in obtaining FDA or EPA approval for the use of a drug or pesticide. He authored 4 books on fish diseases and fish health management, and published over 125 papers in scientific journals. In 1990, Dr. Meyer received the Distinguished Service Medal, the highest civilian award given by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Dr. Meyer also received a Meritorious Service Award from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and numerous other citations from governmental, industry and professional organizations.
Fred was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, an enthusiastic volunteer and organizer, and a friend to everyone he met. He took special delight in sharing his extensive knowledge of nature with his children and grandchildren. Fred enjoyed any activity in nature, whether in a duck blind, a fishing boat or hunting for butterfly cocoons. He was an active member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in La Crescent for many years, and most recently Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in West Salem.
Fred is survived by his three children, Diane Gaynor of Fayetteville, AR; Jim (Linda) Meyer of Peoria, AZ; and Richard Meyer of La Crescent, MN, along with grandchildren Derick Colshan, James Lewis, and Hannah Meyer, and great grandchildren Chloe Lewis, Ellie Giardino and Caden Herrera. Fred’s brother Verdine Meyer continues to reside in Hopkinsville, KY. Fred was preceded in death by his first wife Mary Lou (Polk) in 1993, by his second wife Mary Lou (Geiwitz) in 2012, and by six brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 26 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in La Crescent. Pastor Mike Woods will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 PM on Thursday, August 25 at the church and again on Friday from 10:00 AM until the time of services. Burial will be held at Prince of Peace Cemetery in La Crescent. Memorials are preferred to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice.