Fred Olan “F.O.” Dice

Fred Olan "F.O." Dice, 77, of Emporia, Kansas, died peacefully in the early morning hours of December 9, 2025, surrounded by family and love. True to his own storytelling style, Fred often joked that he had been a "groundbreaking" obituary writer in his early newspaper days—insisting on simply stating that someone died rather than using flowery euphemisms. In his honor, we begin just as he would have wanted.

Fred was born May 9, 1948, in Neodesha, Kansas, the first son of Harold "Dutch" Dice and Ruby Lucille (Ferris) Dice. He was the older brother to Larry Dean and Judy Kay, roles he took to heart throughout his life.

Fred lived a vibrant and varied life, working as a reporter and photographer for The Emporia Gazette, where one of his photos and bylines was picked up by the Associated Press—something he remained proud of for decades. His career later took him into the hospitality world in California, Texas, and Louisiana, and eventually back home to Kansas, where he operated the family's pest control business in Fredonia.

He is survived by his sister, Judy Greer, of Texarkana, and his favorite, sister-in-law, Loril Brockway, of Buffalo, KS, and by his loving nieces and nephews:

• Erik Dice, Buffalo, KS

• Emily (Matt) Wenger, Gridley, IL

• Elly (Marah) Dice, Emporia, KS

• Larry Reilly, Fouke, AR

• Eli Weatherby, Emporia, KS

• Keziah (Victor) Butler, Emporia, KS

• Matthew Reilly, Fouke, AR

Along with sixteen great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom brought him immense joy—especially during this past year.

He was preceded in death by his beloved husband of 32 years, Kendall Bull; his parents; and his brother and best friend, Larry Dice.

Fred will be remembered for his kindness, quick wit, gift for conversation, and his ability to make anyone feel important. He lived fully, loved deeply, and collected stories everywhere he went—many of which his family will cherish and retell for years to come.

In lieu of a traditional funeral, the family will host a celebration of life—"F.O.'s Last Dash Bash"—at a later date. As Fred would often say, things worth doing are worth doing well, so details will be shared once the celebration meets his standards.