Donald FRIES

Don was a powerful mentor for me in the 385th Evac Hospital at Mann Hall, USAR Center. He was a Captain in charge of unit supply. As well as working on cars, Don was a good woodworker and furniture refinisher. We had developed a friendship and Don knew I was an auto body and pint professional. So it came to pass I would spend some afterhours on drill weekends helping with bodywork or painting. I worked on both of his Pierce- Arrows as well as other cars. In return, he refinished and...

It took me a while to post something, but I was fortunate to be one of his last students he taught at Shaw. I enjoyed him as a teacher and enjoyed his witty humor. He also taught a couple of my cousins, as well as my late uncle. One of my family friends also worked at Shaw with him for many years, as well. He is already missed tons.

Dearest Mrs. Fries and the family, I´m very sorry to hear about your loss. We send you our deepest condolences during this challenging times for you and your family. We have lost a great hero, a mentor and a dear friend. I have learned so much from Mr. Fries, especially his education on the "File Days." I have high respect for Mr. Fries and look upon him as a role model. He was my teacher and my colleague. I am honored to know and work with Mr. Fries. His leadership and dedication will...

I was a member of the 385th combat support hospital unit in Spokane. I started in the mid 70´s and was assigned to asst supply officer under then Cpt Fries. He took me under his wing and taught me a lot about the military and life in general. I moved on to be the adjutant of our unit and rose to the rank of captain. I always considered Don as a friend and a mentor and loved his stories about his time at Shaw junior high. I have run into several of his former students who all had good things...

You will be missed.

Mr. Fries was larger than life with a heart of gold. He was not only unconditionally dedicated, but unapologetically cared for his students. He made life as Shaw not only bearable but a place where you wanted to come to every day. He was genuine and held his students to high expectations which made us work harder and truly felt seen. If you ever had, Mr. Fries as a teacher you would remember "File day." This was the day that we listened to Dr. Harry Wong`s compilation of life lessons.  One...

Mr. Fries was a great history teacher at Shaw Middle School! Thank you Mr. Fries for being our teacher! He made the class so fun and he was always full of energy! He would always start each morning by calling each row aka "squad leaders" on taking the morning attendance on their rows! Thank you Mr. Fries for all you did! Valerie Vue

Don´s memory will live on in the hearts of his students. He was an excellent teacher and mentor.

Don and Carolyn joined our V8 car club many years ago. Years later, we were invited over to an open house to view his Pierce Arrow automobile which was parked and on display in one of their living rooms. That's when I began to understand Don and developed a deeper appreciation for Carolyn and her love for Don. May you rest in peace and find your voice with a new audience. Wayne and Renee Shawgo