Fred L. Halberstadt, age 70, of Connersville, passed away on Thursday March 11, 2010 at Community East Hospital in Indianapolis.

He was born on June 9, 1939, in Connersville, the son of Albert and Thelma Hiers Halberstadt; both whom precede him in death.

He is a 1957 graduate of Connersville Sr. High School and a 1961 graduate of Ball State University where he later went on to receive his Masters Degree. While still in college, he toured with the Boston Opera Company for 6 weeks as a percussionist.

After college he began his teaching career as a music teacher and band director at Cowan High School for seven years, and at Randolph Southern High School for one year. He also taught at Centerville High School and Monroe Central High School before he came to Connersville in 1984 as a Special Education Teacher at Fayette Central Elementary School. He retired in 2005, but continued to substitute teach.

He enjoyed playing with the Greenwood Community Band and the Serenade Big Band and making jewelry that he sold at area art shows.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle Mikesell Halberstadt, who he married in Richmond on June 21, 1969; two sons and daughters in law, Brian & Janet Halberstadt of Chesapeake, VA and Scott & Kate Halberstadt of Los Angeles, CA; an uncle, Victor Hiers of Indianapolis and several cousins.

A visitation to remember Fred's life will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Monday March 15, 2010 in the Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church.

Urban Winkler Funeral Home is helping with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Connersville High School Band in order to obtain instruments for band students.