ZANESVILLE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The Class of 1951 established a scholarship to honor their Class President, Fred Near. Frederick "Fred" Eugene Near, Sr., age 85, passed away on Monday, May 15, 2017 at Zanesville Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Fred was born on August 4, 1931 to the late Emmett and Margaret (Hodgson) Near. Fred graduated as class president of the class of 1951 from Zanesville High School, where he was involved in multiple sports. Fred continued to keep close ties with his graduating class throughout the years. On September, 26, 1954, Fred married his high school sweetheart and wife of 62 years, Nita Wright. Fred spent the first half of his career working as a banker, first at City Loan and Savings Co., and then at Coshocton National Bank. He then worked as the vice president for Novelty Advertising Company, from which he retired after 19 years of work. After retirement, he worked for 2 years for the Coshocton County Park District. He then spent 16 years at his most enjoyable job, working as captain of the canal boat.

Fred served as treasurer for Grace United Methodist Church and as lay leader under four ministers. He taught Sunday school for children and adults and was youth fellowship advisor. He worked as a delegate for many years at District and conference levels for the United Methodist Church. He also served on the Board of Ordained Ministry.

Fred was a Hospice volunteer for 18 years, a 60-year member of the Masonic Lodge of Zanesville, a 32-degree member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Cambridge, and a member of Friends of the Park. He served on the Board of Mental Health, the zoning board, many levy committees, and for 34 years as treasurer of his political party. He was also Chairman of the Board at United Way, Chairman of Yandata District Boy Scouts, and clerk of City Council.

​

In May 2017, Del Hayden Gadd was the first recipient of the Fred Near, ZHS Class of 1951 Scholarship. Samantha Alexis Moore received this scholarship in May 2018 and in May 2019 Kyra Young was the recipient.

​

​