Frederick was born on 11 August 1916 in East London, South Africa to London born Jack (Zelig) and Leeds born Leah (Cissie) nee Klugman and he had an older sister Kathleen. Their father worked as an insurance agent and the family travelled regularly between South Africa and England. Frederick was educated at St. Andrew’s College, Grahamstown before moving to England and joining the RAF in December 1938.

In 1939 he lived at 101 Esmond Road, Acton and his occupation was listed as RAF No 3 F.T.S. South Cerney where he flew Hawker Harts. On completion of his training he joined 152 Squadron on the 1 October 1939, which was equipped at the time with Gloster Gladiators. On the 12 July 1940 he went with the squadron to RAF Warmwell and transferred to flying Mk 1 Spitfires.

On 20 July 1940 Frederick departed in Spitfire K9880 at 12.45 to cover petrol convoy Bosom just off Swanage in Dorset. He was shot down by Oberleutnant Homuth flying Messerschmitt Bf 109 3/JG 27, and baled out of his aircraft. He was seen to land on his parachute in the sea near to the convoy but was never seen again.