Frederick Fitzwater, affectionately known as Chuck, was born on Groundhog’s Day and earned the nickname “Woodchuck” from his father, a name that stuck throughout his life. Raised on a dairy farm as the youngest of 11 children, Chuck’s passions have always been farming and family. From a young age, he knew he wanted to dedicate his life to farming.

During high school, Chuck was actively involved in the FFA, holding several offices while managing a small Angus herd and a flock of registered sheep. As his three boys grew old enough to participate in market projects, the family transitioned to raising club lambs. In 2011, Chuck and his wife Brenda purchased part of his childhood farm and established Fitzwater Crosscut Farm. By 2014, they had fully transitioned to raising registered and commercial Boer goats, a decision they never regretted.

Around the same time, Chuck made a significant career change, leaving the public workforce after 14 years with the county, where he also served as union president. This allowed him to focus entirely on the farm and their bus business, Fitzwater Busing. Both ventures flourished under their care. In 2018, they partnered with Lowe’s Pellets and Grains, running a feed business from their barn.

Chuck and Brenda are blessed with six grandchildren, two of whom are active in the JABGA, keeping them busy. Chuck is also a proud Ali Ghan Shriner, the superintendent of sheep at the county fair, a former wrestling and baseball coach, and a bareback bronc rider in his younger days. He finds great joy in helping kids and teaching them to improve their skills in whatever they choose to pursue. He has been a member of ABGA since 2014.