Michael Fries

Mike was born May 16, 1953, in Marquette, a son of James and Marjorie (Rydholm) Fries. Mike grew up in Marquette, attended the local grade schools, Marquette Senior High School, and received his HVAC Certificate from NMU’s Jacobetti Complex. He led a colorful life full of determination, a desire to succeed, and a deep love for his family. The middle child in a family of seven children, Mike remained close with his siblings. For most of his life, Mike worked as a carpenter who enjoyed the challenge of fixing up houses and flipping them, and managing the family’s rental properties. Those who knew him well would say he loved his work and took pride in what he did. He was a true jack of all trades while working for several companies doing carpentry, building log homes, installing windows, you name it. Later in life, he was employed with UP Home Health and Hospice doing maintenance. Anything he learned and experienced, he was always willing to share with others. Mutual friends introduced Mike to Sharon Peterson and a six-year courtship developed. The young couple was married in 1979, outside at Sharon’s brother’s home in Marquette Township.

Throughout the years, Mike and Sharon established their home that Mike built and raised their family. Mike was a doer and it was nowhere more apparent than when he was with his children. He loved spending time with them, following their activities, sharing his interests and talents with them. He was their biggest fan. He built the kids bike jumps, hockey boards, balance beams; all this and more to make the house into Fries Fun Land. Mike showed his love by doing for them. Mike was a jokester and possessed a dry sense of humor which he also handed on to the kids. He wanted his children to succeed, always praising them for anything they accomplished. Camping, cooking, traveling, hunting, hockey, home brewing, saunas, and pickling vegetables from his garden were all activities that he loved and hoped to pass onto the next generation. He absolutely adored his grandkids and they knew they were the twinkle in his eye. Mike loved nothing more than scouring Ebay for a good deal, stopping at any garage and rummage sale for collector stuffùthat sometimes only he could see the value in. Mike’s detached garage was where all kinds of recycling, repurposing, redoing, and re-creating took place. It was his getaway and laboratory of invention. Later in life, Mike grew his iconic beard, which he was very proud of, while the rest of the family insisted he shave it. In retirement, he and Sharon spent countless hours exploring the US in their RV.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sharon; his children, Cassie (Brian) Parkkonen, Cory (Caitlyn) Fries, Calvin Fries; his grandchildren, Keegan, Jagger, Breeley, Palmer, and Sullivan; his siblings, Jackie, Jorge, Tommy, Chris, Jill, and Peggy; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to NMU Public Radio 90, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855, plant a tree or vegetable in your garden at your home, or simply drink a PBR in his honor.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.