Frederick "Fred" M. Hughes

Fred Melvin Hughes, born January 8, 1940, in Shoshone, Idaho. He was the beloved son of Clyde A. and Maxine F. Hughes and one of three children, joining his brother Stanley G. Hughes and his sister Barbara A. Crumrine (Boise, ID). Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Stanley.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of nearly 55 years, Joyce A. Hughes; his children William G. Hughes and Shayne M. Hughes; his cherished grandchildren Natasha, Dalton, Brandon, and Alexis Hughes; his sister Barbara Crumrine and his daughter in law Lora Hughes.

Fred graduated from Shoshone High School in 1958, where he was active in athletics, music, and drama. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Idaho State College in 1962. He began his teaching career at Pocatello High School, before moving to Highland High School in 1963. At Highland, he not only taught mathematics but also coached football and wrestling. Fred earned a Master’s degree in Administration from Idaho State University in 1968, and in 1972, he transitioned to a role as a math-science consultant in the Central Office of School District 25. He later became the Director of Curriculum, a position he held with pride until his retirement in 1999, after 37 years of dedicated service. Fred’s main philosophy of education was simple, “If it is not good for kids, then don’t do it.” These are words to live by as an educator.

A passionate educator, Fred, also played an active role in the state’s educational committee for evaluation and certification. He deeply valued the relationships he built with fellow educators and administrators throughout his career.

Outside of his professional life, Fred had a profound love for nature. He spent countless hours hunting, fishing, boating, and camping with his family, often remarking that his love for Idaho’s natural beauty was what kept him in the state. Island Park was one of his all-time favorite spots.

Fred and Joyce shared a love for Basenjis, raising and breeding these dogs for 35 years. Their dedication earned them recognition as AKC Breeders of Merit, under the kennel ‘Tis-A’senji. Fred and Joyce enjoyed traveling to AKC dog shows, where they made lasting friendships and created many cherished memories. Fred also served the Pocatello Kennel Club as president, chairman for the Blackfoot shows cluster, and AKC delegate for 35 years, playing an integral role in the club’s success.

Fred was also known for his devotion to the sport of wrestling. He served as a coach and an official for 38 years, including 38 years as the 5th District Wrestling Commissioner and 30 years as a state rule interpreter. He officiated at 28 state tournaments, coordinating officials for the state tournament in later years. His contributions to the sport were widely recognized, and he was honored as the Outstanding Official by the State Coaches Association and as Official of the Year by the IHSAA. In 1999, Fred was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, a testament to his years of service and commitment to the sport. Fred had over 48 years dedicated to the love of wrestling. Wow.

Fred loved life to the end. He was always excited for the next football game or the yearly trip to the Oregon coast to eat fresh crab. His sons would make sure his camp trailer was ready for the summer at their place in Island Park, and all he had to do was pull in with his “pretty girl” (his wife Joyce) and his two basenjis and start enjoying nature. He would say every year, as the leaves were changing and the elk were bugling, I sure love the fall. Fred has a legacy of love that is inspiring. He was honestly several people's best friend. Who can do that? He had a dedication to friendship that was unparalleled. From sending an emoji each day to those he loves, or filling a room with his laughter, he knew how to be a friend. Fred, you will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family thinks it would be really nice if you plant a tree in his name. He would love that. Here is a link to Arbor Day Foundation https://www.arborday.org/

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The details will be announced.

Memories and condolences may be shared using the guestbook below.