FREDRICKA SUE (DRAKE) BOETJER, formerly Brazil, IN

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Fredricka Sue (Drake) Boetjer, 64, of Santa Maria, California. On February 8, 2024, Freddie left this world surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of love. A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, Freddie's warmth touched all who knew her.

She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 46 years, Gregg; her loving children Freddie Jo (Tim) Larson; Dusty (Julie) Boetjer; and Nick Boetjer; her grandchildren Nathalie Larson, Bailey Boetjer, Owen Boetjer, Drake Larson, Georgia Sue Boetjer and Ryatt Boetjer. Her memory will also be treasured by her sisters, Tracy Coates and Tammy (Rod) Rhine, and her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Ethel (Catie) Drake, and her sister, Kim Drake.

Freddie was born on May 24, 1959, in Santa Maria, California, and she attended school in Nipomo and at Van Buren Elementary before graduating with the class of 1977 from Van Buren High School in Brazil, Indiana. In 1983, she returned with her husband and children to Santa Maria, California, where she lived for over 40 years. Family was her greatest passion, and she never missed her kids' activities and events, always capturing memories with her video camera. A devoted grandmother of six grandchildren, Freddie loved spending time playing games together, making her delicious pancakes on Sundays, and cheering the kids on as their #1 fan. She had a deep love for animals, treating all of her dogs as members of the family. Her love for family extended to her role as the family historian, tracing roots and preserving memories.

Freddie had many talents and interests. She was a big fan of oldies music, especially Dean Martin, and she loved seeing concerts with her sisters and friends. A fantastic cook, she was known for her homemade rolls, cinnamon rolls, chicken noodles, cookies, and beautifully decorated cakes. With her green thumb, she cultivated a stunning collection of succulents. Additionally, she was skilled at sewing and lovingly crafted beautiful pieces for her family. Professionally, Freddie managed retail stores in Santa Maria and Pismo Beach, where she was adored by her coworkers and others in the community.

A celebration of Freddie's life will be held at Dudley Hoffman Mortuary Chapel in Santa Maria, California, on Saturday, March 16, at one o'clock in the afternoon. Guests are invited to honor Freddie by wearing purple, her favorite color. Though she's no longer with us, her memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who loved her.