Bernard Frederick Juul, Jr

Bernard Frederick “Fred” Juul 

October 20, 1933 – May 25, 2026 

Bernard Frederick “Fred” Juul passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, in Tacoma at the age of 92. 

Born on October 20, 1933, in San Francisco, Fred lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, deep faith, service to others, and devotion to family and friends. 

Fred served in both the Merchant Marines and the United States Army, spending time in Japan and Korea during his years of service. A lifelong learner, he earned master’s degrees in English and Counseling Psychology and pursued studies in theology. His professional life reflected both his love of learning and his commitment to helping others. He taught English at Saint Louis University and later at The Thatcher School. He went on to dedicate much of his career to social work and mental health services, including serving as Director of Mental Health for the Hupa Tribe of California and working as a child therapist. Although a stroke led to his early retirement, his compassion, insight, and concern for others remained central to his life. 

Fred was first married to Mary Lou, the mother of his son, Dom. Later, he found enduring love with Stella Shao, his wife and companion of more than 35 years. Together they built a rich and meaningful life filled with faith, friendship, travel, and adventure. They lived for many years in Sausalito, where they were deeply involved in the community and at Star of the Sea Catholic Church. They also cherished their second home in Mendocino, where they enjoyed the beauty of nature and the companionship of friends and family. 

In 2021, Fred and Stella moved to Tacoma to be closer to Stella’s daughter, Mimi, who helped care for them as they navigated health challenges and transitioned to senior living. 

A devoted Catholic, Fred and Stella had each converted to Catholicism independently before they met. Fred was a Dominican layperson and actively participated in parish life in Sausalito and, for a time, in Mendocino. He lived his faith through service, volunteering with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and ministering to incarcerated individuals through prison outreach. 

Fred’s interests were wide-ranging. He was an avid reader and passionate collector of books. He was also a writer and poet. Among his proudest accomplishments was the publication of his book, Salt Wind, an autobiographical collection of poetry and prose reflecting on his life and experiences. He loved birdwatching, hiking, nature, boating, music, dancing, good food, and wine. He and Stella traveled extensively throughout the United States and around the world, embracing new places, cultures, and experiences. 

Known for his sharp intellect and lively spirit, Fred enjoyed thoughtful conversation and spirited debate. He often played devil’s advocate to challenge assumptions and encourage deeper reflection. 

Friendship was an important part of Fred’s life. He was a longtime member of two men’s groups whose members shared years of fellowship, support, and conversation. These relationships brought him great joy and companionship throughout the decades. 

Above all, Fred loved his family. He took great pride in his son, stepdaughters, granddaughters, and great-granddaughter, and treasured the time he spent with them. 

In his final years, Fred faced life’s challenges with grace, gratitude, and acceptance. Despite living with dementia, he continued to recognize and enjoy time with those he loved. He often expressed appreciation for the people who surrounded him and for his long life. Those who knew him will remember his intelligence, faith, humor, kindness, and curiosity. 

Fred is survived by his son, Domlin “Dom” Juul (April); his stepdaughters, Mimi Tucci (Mike) and Denise Bass (Om Dixon); his granddaughters, Sarah Babcock (Peter Forsyth) and Coco Dixon; and his great-granddaughter, Rosie Forsyth. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Stella Shao, who passed away on April 18, 2026; a blessing for them both, they passed away only 5 weeks apart. 

Fred’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched through his compassion, wisdom, faith, and love. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.