Fred Triggs: May 30 service in Edmonds for retired U.S. Navy captain

Captain Fred Triggs, USN (Ret.) 1939 – 2026

Fred grew up in Chatham, New Jersey, where he attended Kindergarten through 12th grade with Judy, who would later become his wife. They knew each other long before either imagined a life that would include nuclear-powered ships, moving 18 times, global travel, and settling in the Northwest to proudly watch four grandchildren become young adults.

Fred graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1961, beginning a 30-year career in the United States Navy. His first sea assignment was aboard a destroyer stationed in Japan, followed by Naval Nuclear Power School. During that demanding period, Fred and Judy were married on a Saturday and promptly returned to Maryland, so he could study for a Monday exam – which he made sure everyone knew, he passed.

His career included commands of the USS DAVID R. RAY and USS LONG BEACH, service aboard nuclear-powered surface ships, deployments during the Vietnam War, and ultimately command of a frigate squadron sailing out of San Francisco.

The final boat that Fred commanded was his Nordic Tug, Nord Lys, which he and Judy owned for over 20 years. Together with family and friends, they made four trips to Alaska and numerous voyages throughout the waters and marinas of Washington and British Columbia.

Fred is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judy; daughter Deby Hansen (husband Jon), and their children, Jaron and Jordan; son Bruce Triggs and his children, Harriet and Myriam (their mother, Laurel Dykstra).

A service in Fred’s honor will be held on Saturday, May 30th at 11:00 a.m., at Edmonds United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers or trees, contributions may be made in Fred’s honor to: Navy Marine Corps Relief Society 875 N. Randolph St., Suite 225 Arlington, VA 22203 www.nmcrs.org

A full obituary may be found at www.beckstributecenter.com