Frederick-Ress-Obituary

Frederick Ress

Obituary

Ress, Frederick Aged 65, beloved brother, uncle, & friend, died at his home in Minneapolis July 18 after battling Parkinson's disease for 3 ½ years. Frederick was a St. Olaf College Choir member who went on to study at Julliard. He was the lead tenor for the early Minnesota Opera & was a National Finalist in the Metropolitan Opera tryouts in 1970. Fred developed & operated Expeditions of North America (ENA), a wilderness therapy program for juvenile delinquents. He went on to serve as a counselor for adolescent psych patients at Allina Children's Hospital until his retirement. This gifted, innovative man left behind 3 sisters, Sharon (Bob) Eigenheer, Dianne (Bill) Verkennes, Bonnie (Ed) Smith; one brother, Dan (Vicky) Ress; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces & nephews. His life was devoted to using his gifts to make a difference in the lives of others, which he achieved beyond what he could know. Come celebrate his life with us Saturday, 11 AM at Joyce Church (Table 31), 1219 W. 31st St., Minneapolis. Memorials in lieu of flowers to Joyce Church, please.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

I'm Fred's brother, Dan. I am trying to reach as many people who knew Fred as I can. Lori Matthews from the Women's Expedition is writing a book about her experience and Fred. She is having all of film maker Steve Kahlenbeck's slides and footage digitized at a cost of $10,000 and is trying to raise the money. Fred's dear friend, Jim Wiinanen, former Director of Wilderness Canoe Base, knows a movie producer interested in creating a film telling Fred's incredible story. I would like to...

Fred provided the opportunity for me to venture on a journey that helped me understand and deal with juveniles that came before me, in court, for over 30 years. His vision, determination and hope will never be forgotten.

I'm saddened to have discovered this page and news of Fred's passing. Fred was a force of nature and an inspiration to many of us who had the good fortune to stumble along the way and find our way to ENA. Fred, Dan and Steve created and nurtured ENA which inspired lives, including my own. I am forever grateful. Tim Elgren ENA 76 & 78

2 years later. You are remembered and loved. You helped so many, thank you for sharing your gifts with us all. Belated condolences to Freds family and friends.

Rest in peace Fred.
Jerry McGuire "Lino Lakes Youth Corrections inmate." (1975)North America Expedition.

Dear Fred,
A year later and your Friendship and Love live on. I am most fortunate to have known you and shared some of this Life together as Friends.
Stephen

http://www.fileswap.com/dl/FpxWC78RXr/

The above is a link to the audio file of Fred Ress' Memorial Service at Salem Church in Minneapolis on September 15th, 2012. Feel free to email me if the link does not work.

ressdl @ hotmail . com

Making Breakfast, 7/72

Lake of the Woods, 7/72