Frederick C. “Fred” Byham

Born in Meadville, PA, on April 2, 1935, to Charles and Leah (Warner) Byham, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Edinboro University and his master’s degree from Clarkson University. A proud U.S. Army Veteran, he launched his long and fulfilling career in education in 1958, when he joined the Dunkirk High School faculty teaching algebra and Mathematics 12.

As the recipient of a 1962 National Science Foundation grant, he went on to earn his PhD in mathematics education from Ohio State University. In 1964, he joined the faculty of the State University of New York College at Fredonia. For 31 years, he taught mathematics, supervised student teachers, and was active in the Education Honorary Society.

An avid golfer, he coordinated the annual faculty staff golf tournament for many years, was an active member of the Hillview Men’s Association, and enjoyed assembling golf clubs as a hobby.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Mary “Pat” Byham of Dunkirk-Fredonia; two daughters, Pam (Pete) DeIvernois of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, and Kim Powell of Fredonia; a son, Michael (Denise) Byham of Dunkirk; seven grandchildren: Matthew, Nicole, Alex, and Patrick DeIvernois, Connor and Caroline Powell, and Morgan Byham; a sister-in-law, Barbara Byham; several nieces and nephews; and his longtime close friend and neighbor Doug Kaltenbach. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Mary Knight, and a brother, William Byham.

Fred will be remembered by all who knew and loved him as “Steady Freddy,” a gentle-natured family man with a huge heart, a warm smile, a perpetual twinkle in his eye, and a sly, dry sense of humor. Following his 1995 retirement from teaching, he enjoyed spending winters in Myrtle Beach with Pat, and as always, rooting for his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. Most of all, he cherished his time with the grandchildren who were the light of his life.

In accordance with his wishes, services will be private. Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.