Frederick John Willenbrock II, long-time editor, publisher and owner of The Newport Miner and Gem State Miner Newspapers, died peacefully on February 14 in the arms of his loving wife and partner Susan at the Wockner Hospice Care Center in Kirkland, Washington. He was 73.

Fred was born in Dayton, Ohio on April 2, 1952, to Frederick “Jack” and Margaret Willenbrock. He was raised in the family home in Bellevue, Washington, where he was active in athletics, music, and journalism, graduating from Sammamish High School in the Class of 1970. He later went on to study journalism at Western Washington University and the University of Washington.

In 1977, Fred married the love of his life, Susan Patricia Vesey. After many adventures in western Washington, Fred and Susan moved to Newport, Washington in 1986, where he carried out his lifelong dreams of owning community newspapers and raising two beautiful, loving and supportive sons, Colin and Devon.

From the start, Fred immersed himself in every aspect of the newspaper business, covering sports, human interest stories, local government, school events, rodeo parades, high school graduations, etc. You name the event - Fred was likely there with a camera, notepad and one of his sons on his shoulders. Through it all, his partner Susan was by his side encouraging his dream.

As an employer, Fred went out of his way to support his talented staff. While urging excellence, honesty and integrity, Fred regularly reminded his employees that family and community are of the utmost importance. He infused the newsroom with laughter, brainstorming and creativity. Many employees remained in touch even after he retired in 2015, crediting Fred’s enthusiasm and guidance for launching and inspiring their careers.

Under his leadership, The Newport Miner and staff earned many awards including First Place for General Excellence from the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association. Fred served on the WNPA board of directors and as WNPA President. In 2020, Fred was honored with the prestigious Miles W. Turnbull Master Editor/Publisher Award for his significant contributions to his newspaper, community, state, and the WNPA.

In addition to his many business accomplishments, Fred was an exceptional human being who led an incredible life. He loved spending time with his family at their home on Diamond Lake, where he enjoyed floating on the water, watching the sunsets, reading a good book, cooking amazing meals and sharing laughs. His greatest passion was his three grandchildren and cheering them on through their various activities. He found great pride in their many accomplishments.

Fred is survived by his wife of 48 years, Susan; sons, Colin (Katie) and Devon (Courtney); grandchildren, Carson (13), Kennedy (10) and Kasen (3); and sister, Lori Graeff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his mother-in-law and father-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Maws & Paws Booster Club, PO Box 534, Newport, WA 99156.

A celebration of life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Priest River Event Center, 5399 Highway 2, Priest River, Idaho, 83856.