Gerald "Jerry" Fries, age 53 of Mesa, Arizona, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 26, 2016 at the Mountain View Medical Center in Mesa, AZ. Jerry was born in Bismarck, North Dakota and a long time resident of Mesa, Arizona. He was a business owner and employee for the City of Mesa for 21 years, most recently as a Substation Technician.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Annette Marie Fries, and sons Kyle Richard (24) and Christopher Jake (20); brothers, Doug (Ruth) Fries, Tom (LuAnn) Fries, Rod (Sandi) Fries; sisters, Joanne Jesse-Griffin, Janice (Rance) Bishop, Carol Dixon; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.


He is preceded in death by his parents Jacob and Mary Fries.
Jerry grew up in Mott, ND on the family farm. After livng in Bismarck during his elementary years, Jerry moved to Chandler, AZ for a short time and then graduated from Campbell County High School in Gillette, WY in 1981. Jerry moved back to Arizona soon after to meet his loving wife Annette of 25 years. They made their home in Mesa. They have two sons, Kyle and Christopher.
Jerry was an avid hunter who always claimed he was the best shot. He was a professional rummage sailor. As a professional rummage sailor his most exciting find was toys, which he took home to test and play with before giving them up to the kids. Jerry enjoyed water and snow skiing, fishing, camping, riding his Harleys, horseback riding and traveling. His newest favorite place to be was on a cruise ship.

Jerry always made everyone feel special. He had the kindest heart, biggest smile, and twinkle in his eyes. One of the privileges of being the baby of the family, he had the opportunity to live with each one of his siblings at one time or another throughout his life. These experiences shaped his personality greatly and left an impression on them as well. So many looked up to him and respected him. Jerry blessed everyone he met with his spirit.

The Service of Remembrance will be held at 10:00am MT Saturday, December 10, 2016 at St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Mott. Deacon Ervin Schneider will officiate with burial in Sunnyslope Cemetery at Mott.

A rosary service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Mott, ND.