Fred Casey Memorial Scholarship

Fred Casey was born and raised in Southeast Brainerd. He attended Brainerd Public Schools for his K-12 education. An excellent student, Fred continued his education at Concordia College in Moorhead. After earning his 4 year degree from Concordia in 1964, he attended the University of Minnesota Law School and was awarded a Doctor of Laws Degree in 1967. He then was admitted to the practice of law before both Minnesota and Federal courts. At this point Fred had many options because of his strong academic record and personal integrity. Ignoring tempting opportunities, which likely offered higher earnings and greater professional recognition, Fred chose to return to his home town to raise a family and practice law.

Once in Brainerd, he became active in several civic and charitable organizations, often serving in leadership roles. Fred was also a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Always civic minded, he served 13 years on the Brainerd School Board and helped establish the Brainerd Public Schools Foundation. Fred resigned from the school board upon his election as a District Judge for the Ninth Judicial District. With his chambers in Brainerd, he served as a trial judge for 15 years, earning a distinguished reputation for his wisdom, fairness, and integrity. In 2008 Fred retired from the bench. Despite all his professional achievements and local prominence, family was always of foremost importance to Fred. A loyal and faithful husband to his wife Mary of 61 years, together they raised 3 children who also attended and graduated from Brainerd Public Schools.

Blessed with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Fred literally loved nothing more than doting on them while serving as a positive role model by his quiet and unpretentious character. Fred truly proved to be “a local boy who made good.”