Kenneth E Fries

Kenneth E. Fries, 96, passed away peacefully on Friday at The Lutheran Home in Hollidaysburg. He was born in Altoona, a son of the late Jacob and Nettie (Walter) Fries. He married Pauline M. Karstetter on Nov. 24, 1943. Ken is survived by his wife of 70 years; one daughter, Rebecca Harbison (Richard) of Springfield, Pa.; two sons: Stephen Fries (Michele) of Lancaster and Jon Fries (Susan) of Altoona; four grandchildren: Kristina Zuniga (Steve), Kathryn Hebert (Jarrod), Brian Fries (Rebecca) and Erin Fries; and two great-grandchildren: Rylie Zuniga and Wyatt Hebert; and many nieces and nephews. As the last of his immediate family, he was preceded in death by his seven brothers and three sisters. Ken was a graduate of Altoona High School and a veteran of World War II where he served in the Army Air Force, achieving the rank of 2nd lieutenant. Following his discharge, he attended Penn State University, graduating from the College of Engineering in 1949. After a long career, he retired as an electrical engineer from GTE/Phillips Co. A lifelong Lutheran, Ken was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and then the Simpson-Temple United Parish. At St. Paul, he taught Sunday school, was a member of the church council and served as an usher. An avid sports fan, Ken loved watching basketball, baseball and Penn State football. He also was a member of Park Hills Country Club and enjoyed playing golf until he was 90 years old. Ken will be remembered for his devotion to his wife, his wit and sense of humor and his love of numbers. Friends will be received from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Monday in the Community Room of the Allegheny Lutheran Home, where a funeral service conducted by Pastor Denise Arpino will be held at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be at Alto-Reste Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to The Allegheny Lutheran Home, Hollidaysburg, or Simpson Temple United Parish, Altoona. Arrangements are by Mauk & Yates Funeral Home Inc., Juniata.