Fred Mauro

Fred Mauro, age 65, the youngest of three children born to Frederick and Martha Mauro (both predeceased), drew his last breath on March 30, 2021 as a result of metastatic bladder cancer. Fred is survived by his brother, Joe (spouse Betsy, predeceased), sister, Lu and brother-in-law, Eric, nephews Steven and Joey, and Joey’s spouse Brenda, and great-nephew, Jaxon. He is also survived by many beloved cousins.

Fred attended North Catholic High School, received an Associate’s Degree in Marketing from Pierce College, and later transferred to Temple University. At Temple University, Fred’s world grew and his curiosity was piqued. He took courses in Education, Art, and especially Horticultural Science at Temple’s Ambler Campus. At Pierce College he was an active member of the Marketing Club; and at Temple, he was an active member of the Distributive Education Club.

Fred was employed for close to 40 years in several of Philadelphia’s most iconic and historic department stores, past and present including, Gimbels, Strawbridge’s, John Wanamaker’s and Macy’s. Fred took great pride in his work as Retail Associate in these companies, becoming very knowledgeable about the products in his department and providing personalized, customer service - values that he embraced. Due to his marketing and esthetic sensibilities, he was frequently involved in creating product displays that would appeal to customers. He valued high-quality products and artisanship. When Fred chose a gift, it would surely be unique, tasteful, whimsical, or beautiful.

Inquisitive, smart, and creative, Fred enjoyed the natural world, history and beauty in all its forms. In his college years, he took pleasure in painting, drawing, carving and creating displays for college projects. Fred volunteered as a Tour Guide at the Fairmount Park Historic Mansions, and was also a member of the Batona Hiking Club.

Fred was a very sensitive person, interested in people and the world. He was sincere, genuine and guileless. Kind and compassionate, he took care to do no harm to others and to leave a small footprint. Fastidious and orderly, and careful with his health, Fred avoided tobacco, alcohol and drugs. For a city boy, Fred led a more quiet, solitary and reserved life, frequently distracted and overwhelmed by the turbulence, noise and visual stimuli of urban life. Fred’s deep Christian faith anchored and sustained him as did the love and care of his mother, Martha.

In the last couple years of his life, Fred found safety, peace, warmth and companionship while residing in an independent living apartment at the Philadelphia Protestant Home (PPH). Fred was very happy at PPH, made friends, and enjoyed the many PPH social activities, holiday celebrations, prayer meetings and Sunday services. The family is heart-broken that we could not have more time with Fred.

Services will be private. ÂDonations in Fred’s memory may be made to the Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111

To record a brief video or voice only tribute, condolence or cherished memory to be shared privately with the family, please click this link: Send Hugs for Fred Mauro