William Albert Fries, Sr.

April 28th, 1942 - April 8th, 2021

Memorial

Mementos

William Albert Fries, Sr., known to all as 'Bill', was a most beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was a man of staunch integrity, deep compassion, gentle strength and solid faith. His industriousness and pursuit of excellence were matched only by his sense of humor and his delight in nature. He cherished Judy, his wife of nearly 56 years, with pure and comprehensive devotion. His pride in and love for his four children and 11 grandchildren was interminable and unconditional. Bill was a committed follower of Jesus and a diligent student of the Bible, taking great joy in sharing through countless teaching settings the truths of Scripture, principles of character, and foundational insights for a life of peace and success. His book, The Power of the Kingdom, is a testament to his passionate faith. Bill was born on April 28, 1942 in Reading, Pennsylvania. His family moved to West Palm Beach, Florida when he was in junior high school. After high school and a year at Palm Beach Junior College (now Palm Beach State College), he attended the US Naval Academy at Annapolis. He studied nuclear engineering and, upon graduation, was an Officer in the Navy's nuclear submarine program. After his final tour of duty and having achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander, Bill rejoined civilian life and took a position at Florida Power & Light. After a 30 year career, he retired from his position of Vice President and began enjoying his many recreational pursuits. Bill was an avid swimmer, having begun in junior high school and continuing up to competitive swimming at Annapolis, transitioning to a fitness regimen that lasted the rest of his life. Bill loved to travel, to visit long-time friends, re-visit favorite places and of course explore new regions with new experiences. As much as he loved the adventure of a trip, Bill tremendously enjoyed being home. He relished walks at sunset, sitting on the porch swing, and lying on the patio lounge chair at night looking at the stars. Bill passed from this life on the afternoon of April 8, 2021. While we mourn our heartbreaking loss, we will carry with us the immeasurable impact of his existence every moment of every day to come.

Events

PAST EVENT

Celebration of Life

Apr 30th, 2021

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

(GMT-4:00) Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Francis Langford Dockside Pavilion, Northeast Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach, FL, USA

1707 NE Indian River Dr, Jensen Beach, FL 34957, USA

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor William’s life with a heartfelt message.

Carol Small

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Published April 22nd, 2021

Michael Morse

Working for Bill was one of my best experiences. One of my best and most memorable mentors. He helped guide me forward to be able to manage people so that they could reach their highest potential. Not very many people can do that. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. He touched a lot of people in a positive way.

Published April 19th, 2021

Pamela Browning Author

From Gary Freer - Bill and I have been the best of friends since we swam for the YMCA years ago. We were kids when we met, and our friendship progressed through high school swim team, college fraternity, Navy days and recent times. No one could have ever been a better friend than he was to me, and I've never admired anyone as much as I did Bill. I'm sad that he was taken from us too soon, but Pam and I are grateful for the memories. In October, 2018, we hosted a luncheon for close friends who have stood by us through the years. Bill and Judy were there, and I'm sharing the pictures. We will never forget him or his kindness, goodwill, loyalty and friendship. With love and condolences to his beloved Judy and the family, Gary Freer

Published April 19th, 2021

Ivory Baker

What a mighty man of God. Mom and I were so blessed by his friendship and his powerful teaching. He has left a legacy tha will produce much fruit. He will forever be in our hearts.

Published April 21st, 2021