Charles G. Fries, Jr., 84, of Vero Beach, FL died July 9, 2009 at the Indian River Estates Medical Center in Vero Beach.
He was born in Philadelphia, PA and moved to Vero Beach in 2001 from Doylestown, PA.
Mr. Fries was a Cabinet Maker with Philco-Ford and the Philadelphia Inquirer prior to retirement and was member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Vero Beach. He was a highly decorated war hero receiving two Distinguished Flying Crosses and four Air Medals while serving in the US Navy during WWII and was recognized with a Plaque and Ceremony aboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier in Charleston Harbor, SC. He was instrumental in the design and construction of the WW II Memorial in Doylestown. Mr. Fries was a member of the National Clock Organization, a professional dance instructor and member of the Dance Educators of America, had significant hours of volunteer work at the Indian River Medical Center as a Cuddler, was a fencer and member of the United States Fencing Association, has a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and restored antique cars including a 53 MGTD which won an award at the prestigious New Hope Auto Show in New Hope, PA.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Grace Fries of Vero Beach; son Charles Fries, III (Nancy) of Independence, MO; daughter Judith Cawley (Raymond) of Vero Beach; son William Fries, III, (Eileen) of Mt. Airy, MD; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
He was predeceased by his sisters Jane Bauer and Norma Quinn.
SERVICES: A memorial service will be held 10:00 AM, Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Asbury United Methodist Church in Vero Beach with the Reverend Diego Flores presiding. Interment with Military Honors will take place at the Columbarium of Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Asbury United Methodist Church, 1708 43rd Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach, Florida. Condolences may be sent through www.seawindsfh.com/obit.php