OBITUARY: Frederick E. Bent, 90

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Frederick E. Bent, “Fred,” age 90, of Wilmington, MA, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, following a brief illness.

Fred was born in Melrose, MA, on January 14, 1935, the beloved son of the late Fred J. and Edith B. (Lutes) Bent. He was raised and educated in Malden and was a proud graduate of Malden High School, where he excelled as a track and field star.

Fred was inducted into the United States Navy in March of 1956, serving honorably aboard the USS Antietam. He was discharged in October of 1957 and continued his commitment to service with the Navy Reserves until 1962.

In August of 1957, Fred married his high school sweetheart, Elna “Ellie” Aalerud, and together they celebrated more than 68 years of marriage. Fred and Ellie made their home in Wilmington, where they raised their family and created a lifetime of cherished memories. A devoted husband and father, Fred later found his greatest joy in his role as “Grampie” to his grandsons and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

A hardworking and dedicated professional, Fred was an electrician with IBEW Union Local #103 for over 73 years. He was known for his skill, integrity, and strong work ethic, and he formed many lifelong friendships throughout his career.

Fred was a man of deep faith and an active member of the Wilmington United Methodist Church, where he generously volunteered his time and talents. Along with fellow church members, he participated in the Mission of Deeds program, helping individuals and families get back on their feet by furnishing homes and offering support. He was also a proud member of the Friendship Lodge of Masons in Wilmington, dedicating countless hours to serving the community.

In his free time, Fred enjoyed fishing, golfing, and traveling with family and friends. He was known for his great sense of humor and his bellowing laugh. A gentle giant with a kind heart, Fred always put others first and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Fred was the beloved husband of Elna “Ellie” Bent; devoted father of Susan Bent of Exeter, NH, the late Debra Bent, Frederick Bent and his wife Noreen of Dracut, MA, and Steven Bent and his wife Susan of Westford, MA. He was the loving “Grampie” of Brian and his wife Amanda, Timothy and his wife Sara, Christopher and his wife Ali, and great-grandchildren Daisy, Jasey, Palmer, and Grayson. He was the dear brother of Barry Bent and his wife Helen of Westford, MA, and was predeceased by his siblings Frances Sorensen, Alan Bent, Robert Bent, and Barbara Panza. Fred is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends are invited to attend Visiting Hours on Sunday, February 8th, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA. A Service to Celebrate Fred’s Life will be held on Monday, February 9th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Wilmington United Methodist Church, 87 Church Street, Wilmington, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred’s memory may be made to the Friendship Lodge, 32 Church Street, Wilmington, MA 01887.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.