News Summary

The Honesdale community is mourning the loss of Fred Light, a beloved baseball and softball coach who impacted countless lives during his 20 years at Honesdale High School. Fred passed away at the age of 82 following complications from surgery. His legacy as a mentor and his contributions to local sports will be cherished by many. A public viewing will be held on August 15, followed by a burial service on August 16, as friends and family gather to honor his memory.

Honesdale Mourns the Loss of a Sporting Legend

In the charming town of Honesdale, the community is coming together to remember the life of a beloved figure, Fred Light, who passed away at the age of 82. Known for his indelible mark on the world of baseball and softball, Fred was a dedicated coach and mentor whose influence stretched far beyond the baseball diamond.

Fred Light took his last breath on Saturday, August 9, at the Carbondale Nursing and Rehabilitation Center following complications from a back surgery. His death leaves a profound void not only within the Honesdale High School community but also among the many lives he touched during his extensive coaching career.

A Pearl in the Sports Community

For more than twenty years, Fred served as the varsity baseball coach at Honesdale High School. His commitment to the sport and to his players made him a standout figure in the Wayne Area Sports Hall of Fame. To many, he was an icon at Honesdale High School, where his passion and caring nature shined through. The impact Fred made will likely resonate for generations to come.

A Life of Athletic Brilliance

Born to Merritt and Anne Light and raised in Meshoppen, Fred’s athletic roots were apparent from a young age. After graduating from Elk Lake High School in 1960 as a multi-sport athlete, he pursued his passion for baseball at Penn State University. Here, he not only played but also excelled, leading the team to the prestigious 1963 College World Series, where they finished fifth nationally.

Fred set records at Penn State that stood proud until the mid-1980s, holding the title for both single-season and career stolen bases. His prowess on the field didn’t go unnoticed, as he was subsequently signed by the Houston Astros, making his way through the minor league system with teams such as the Durham Bulls and Salisbury Astros. Notably, he was part of the 1965 Western Carolina All-Star Team, hitting 23 home runs while playing shortstop.

A Family Man at Heart

Fred’s love story began when he met Carole Longsdorf at Penn State. Their bond blossomed, leading to a beautiful marriage in 1966 that lasted nearly six decades. Together, they welcomed two sons, Win and Rob, who brought them four wonderful grandchildren: Amanda, Natalie, Bridgette, and Luke. It’s no surprise that his family remembers him as not just a coach, but a loving husband and father, someone who prioritized family above all.

A Lasting Legacy

After an illustrious run in baseball, Fred wove his way back into the community as a coach for the varsity softball team. His dedication continued for 15 years as a paid assistant and five more years as a volunteer. His commitment to coaching was rooted in his desire to prepare promising athletes for league and district championships, fostering not only skill but also a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

As the news of his passing spreads, heartfelt tributes from former players and colleagues are surfacing, painting a picture of a man whose influence will forever linger. Fred Light is remembered not just for his feats on the field, but for being a mentor and friend.

Final Farewell

For those wishing to honor his memory, a public viewing is scheduled for August 15 at the Arthur A. Bryant Funeral Home in Honesdale, followed by a burial service at Central United Methodist Church on August 16. The times of these gatherings are still pending, but they promise to bring together friends, family, and a community that is grieving together.

As Honesdale reflects on the memory of Fred Light, it is clear that his legacy will live on in the hearts of many. His contributions to baseball and softball, along with his kindness and commitment to his players, will never be forgotten.

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