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MARQUETTE, MI – George Patrick Fries, age 77, of Marquette, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026. A lifelong Marquette resident, George was born on September 10, 1948, and spent his entire life in the community he proudly called home.
George graduated from Marquette Senior High School with the Class of 1966, where he played on the school's first Marquette Redmen hockey team. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country during the Vietnam Era. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to Marquette and attended Northern Michigan University, earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration.
After college, George worked for several local businesses before co-founding A&F Construction Company with a coworker. He owned and operated the business for many years before retiring.
George enjoyed fishing, riding his motorcycle, watching hockey, and listening to music. He looked forward to his weekly lunches with his siblings and especially loved introducing family and friends to new music he had discovered on YouTube.
Nothing brought George greater joy than spending time with his family. He rarely missed a hockey game, swim meet, or figure skating practice involving his children. As his family grew, he enthusiastically cheered on his grandchildren at hockey, volleyball, basketball, soccer, and baseball games. George's love for hockey became even more meaningful during the years he spent coaching alongside his son, Derrick, creating memories that remained close to his heart. After retiring, George could be found at the ice rink most days, proudly watching his favorite player and best buddy, his great-grandson Carson. He was everyone's number one fan, always encouraging those he loved from the stands.
George is survived by his two daughters, Lori Fries of Marquette and Carrie Fries of Marquette; his four grandchildren, Cameron (Faith) Fries, Courtney Fries, Connor Fries, and Caleb Fries, all of Marquette; his great-grandson, Carson Fries of Marquette; his siblings, Jackie Menhennick of Marquette, Tom Fries of North Carolina, Jill (Roger) Sutherland of Oregon, Chris (Jill) Fries of Wisconsin, and Peggy Fries of Pennsylvania; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Derrick Fries; his parents, James "Jim Bob" and Marjorie "Margie" Fries; his brother, Mike Fries; and his brother-in-law, Paul Menhennick.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Marquette Junior Hockey or the U.P. Run for Life Organ Donation Fund through the Superior Health Foundation.
Honoring George's wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com