Obituaries

Frederick “Yenko Freddie” Joseph Plageman, Jr., 82, of Newport, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Born in Dayton, Kentucky, on September 17, 1943, he was the son of the late Hope Plageman and Frederick Plageman, Sr.

In his younger years, Frederick was known by many as “Yenko Freddie,” a nickname he earned in his twenties after owning a legendary 1969 Yenko Chevelle. The car was known as one of the fastest in the tri-state area and became a memorable part of his early life and reputation among friends.

Frederick was a hardworking and entrepreneurial man who spent much of his life involved in a variety of businesses. He owned and operated semi trucks that hauled beer for Wiedemann’s Brewery in Newport. Over the years, he also owned taxi cabs, apartment buildings, and partnered in an appliance store with his lifelong best friend, Ralphie Roeder.

Above all else, Frederick loved spending time with his family. They were his world, and he cherished every moment he was able to share with them.

Frederick is survived by his sons, Frederick P. Plageman and Ronald (Caitlin) Plageman; daughters, Kathy Wuilleumier and Bridgette Plageman; brother, Clayton Plageman; as well as 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family.