John “Ted” T. Frels, a cherished resident of East Moline, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the age of 101, in the comfort of his own home. Ted’s remarkable life was filled with love, adventure, and a profound commitment to family, friends, and his country. 

Funeral services will be held 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline. A visitation will be held from 9:00 am until service time, at the funeral home. Ted will be laid to rest at Greenview Memorial Gardens, accompanied by military honors in recognition of his service in the U.S. Navy. 

Born on August 12, 1924, in Zuma Township, IL, Ted was the son of Floyd and Lila (Wainwright) Frels. He married the love of his life, June Bordner, on October 18, 1946, at 1st Presbyterian Church in East Moline. They shared a beautiful life together until June’s passing in March 2019. 

After coming back from the Navy, Ted worked at Agnew Drug Store selling cameras and later co-founding Lenox Photo Finishing in Moline. Ted's passion for flying began at an early age; he took his first solo flight at just 16 years old. His love for aviation led him to a fulfilling career, he worked as a charter pilot and instructor at Elliott Aviation and retired as the manager of the flight department at Montgomery Elevator. Ted was a dedicated member of the Quiet Birdman – Pilot Club and proudly held the title of 32nd Degree Mason. His innate curiosity and tenacity extended beyond the skies; he was a self-taught expert in the DOS computer system, a talented handyman, and a beloved family carpenter who created beautiful cabinets and furniture for those he loved. Moreover, his passion for photography flourished, with a darkroom in his home that allowed him to capture life’s most treasured moments. 

Above all, Ted’s greatest joy came from spending time with family. He is survived by his children, Jean (Robert) Norton of East Moline, and David (Cathy) Frels of Sebring, FL; his grandchildren, Aimee Abington, Matthew Norton, Angela (Shawn) Schadle, Jill (Scott) Dynes, and John (Amy) Frels; and his great-grandchildren, Alexandria Dynes, Logan Dynes, Jacelyn Frels, Reid Frels, Paige Frels, Isabelle Schadle, Chloe Schadle, and Allison Schadle. He is also survived by his brother, Everett Frels. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, June Frels; his siblings, Melvin (Dorothy) Frels and Kenneth (Donna) Frels; sister-in-law, Martha Frels; brothers-in-law, Duane (Jewel) Bordner and Ralph (Carol) Bordner; and grandson-in-law, Bruce Abington. 

As we remember Ted, let us celebrate a life well-lived—filled with kindness, unwavering support, and a thirst for adventure. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The Frels family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Unity-Point Hospice and Home Instead Senior Care, particularly Gary, Kelly, Brisa, and Kendra, for their compassionate care and unwavering support during Ted’s final days.