Today, we honor the memory of Dr. Frederick Charles Rimmele III, who was tragically lost on September 11, 2001, when United Airlines Flight 175 was hijacked and crashed into the World Trade Center. Frederick, a beloved physician, husband, and adventurer, would have celebrated his 55th birthday today. His life, though cut short, continues to inspire those who knew him.
Early Life and Education
Frederick was born on October 3, 1968, in Clifton, New Jersey. He grew up in the area with his sister Karen and later moved to Marblehead, Massachusetts. A dedicated student, Frederick attended Montclair Kimberley Academy, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He later attended Amherst College, graduating in 1990 with a Bachelor’s degree, followed by his Medical degree from Duke University Medical College in 1994. At college, Frederick was not only a passionate learner but also a rower on the crew team and editor of the campus humor magazine.
A Passionate Physician and Teacher
After completing his residency in Family Medicine at the Maine-Dartmouth Family Practice Residency in 1997, Frederick began his medical career at the Foxboro Area Health Center. He later became the medical director of Beverly Hospital’s Family Practice Residency program in 2001. Known for his kindness, dedication, and exceptional bedside manner, Frederick was a physician who truly cared for his patients and residents. He was known to have delivered several babies and was deeply loved by those he served.
Love for Nature and Adventure
Frederick was not just a dedicated doctor, but also an avid lover of the outdoors. He met his wife, Kimberly Trudel, while hiking a trail in New Hampshire in 1994. Their shared love for nature led them to many adventures, including hiking the Swiss Alps, touring the Irish countryside, bird-watching in Belize, and canoeing in Maine. He also enjoyed playing Scrabble, investing in the stock market, and bird-watching with his mother in New Jersey.
His Legacy
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Frederick boarded Flight 175 to Los Angeles, where he was scheduled to attend a medical conference in Monterey, California. Tragically, the plane was hijacked and crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center, taking the lives of everyone on board, including Frederick. Though his life was unfairly taken, his legacy of kindness, service, and adventure lives on.
A Spirit That Will Never Be Forgotten
Frederick’s family, friends, and colleagues continue to remember him as thoughtful, kind, dedicated, and special. His legacy is carried on by the countless lives he touched and the memories shared by those who knew him. Today, as we remember Dr. Frederick Charles Rimmele III, we honor not just his life but the vibrant spirit he brought to this world.
Closing Line: Happy heavenly birthday, Frederick. We will never forget your life, your legacy, and the love you shared. ❤️
