Gary Fries Obituary

Gary F. Fries

Jul 6, 1950 - Apr 22, 2026

Monroeville

Gary F. Fries, 75, of Monroeville passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, April 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born July 6, 1950, in Norwalk, to the late Clayton and Irene (Bauman) Fries. Gary was a 1968 graduate and athlete at St. Paul High School, Norwalk.

He began working at Norfolk & Western Railroad in Norwalk after graduation and continued there for over 40 years, retiring in 2010 from Bellevue Norfolk Southern Railroad.

Gary was an avid sports fan, and he passed his love of sports on to his children and grandchildren. His favorite teams were Cleveland Indians, The Ohio State Buckeyes, and Cleveland Browns, always hoping for a win.

He is survived by his wife of almost 45 years, Theresa (Fitzgerald) Fries; his children, Chris (Chuck) Puder, Mandy Walkup, and Nikki (Matt) Balmer; his grandchildren, Mark, Schyler, Chloe, Raigan, and Azlin; brothers, Greg (Ruth) Fries and Dave (Debbie) Fries; and numerous nephews and nieces.

The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until time of funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 66 Chapel Street, Monroeville, Ohio 44847. Fr. Charles Obinwa will officiate. A private family burial will take place at a later date at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Monroeville. All are invited to St. Joseph Social Hall following Mass for fellowship and to share memories of Gary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Erie County, 1911 Superior Street, Sandusky, Ohio 44870 or St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Pfeil Funeral Home, Monroeville Chapel, has been entrusted with arrangements.

Condolences may be shared with family at pfeilfuneralhome.com.