Heinz K. Fridrich, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and esteemed professional, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on February 24, 1933, in Stuttgart, Germany, Heinz's journey through life was marked by remarkable achievements and a deep commitment to his family and community. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela, and their three children, Peter (spouse Gloria), Dennis (spouse Diana) and Cathy (spouse Matthew). Heinz was also a proud grandfather to Eric, Matthew, Megan, Thomas and Ryan, and he leaves behind family in Germany who will cherish his memory.
Heinz's professional career was distinguished and impactful. He dedicated 43 years to IBM, where he rose to the position of corporate vice president of manufacturing before retiring in 1993. His expertise in industrial management was honed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he graduated with a master's degree in 1965. Heinz's leadership and vision contributed significantly to the success of IBM during a transformative era in technology.
In addition to his corporate accomplishments, Heinz served his country with honor in the Auxiliary Coast Guard Auxiliary, beginning in September 2000. His commitment to service was recognized when he achieved AUXOP status in 2004, and he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation and the Coast Guard Humanitarian Award for his dedication and contributions.
Heinz was also passionate about education and giving back to the community. In 1995, he founded the Integrated Product & Process Design engineering program at the University of Florida, which has since inspired countless students. His contributions to the field of engineering were acknowledged when he received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the University of Florida College of Engineering in 2003.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no memorial service. Instead, the family encourages all who knew Heinz to remember him through acts of kindness and service to others, reflecting the values he lived by. Heinz K. Fridrich will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, leadership and service will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
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Published by News Leader from Jun. 4 to Jun. 19, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Heinz Fridrich

Sponsored by Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.

6 Entries

Louis Guadagno

June 29, 2025

My deepest condolences Heinz's family. I was a collegue of Heinz's in IBM. Heinz made a huge impact to IBM as well as me as a Manufacturing leader. God Speed, Heinz!

Louie Guadagno

Louis Guadagno

June 29, 2025

My deepest condolencess to Heinz's family. I was one of Heinz's collegues at IBM. I knew him as a leader of us Manufacturing guys and well respected by all. He made a signinficant impact to IBM and me as a leader in the Manufacturing world. God Speed, Hienz!

Louie Guadagno

Tony Andres

June 28, 2025

Dear Pamela and family, My deepest sympathy and condolences to you. I´m saddened by Heinz´ passing and sincerely sorry I did not better keep up with him in recent years. I worked with Heinz for 3 years, 1991-93 and I was with him during `the restructuring´, his valiant effort to help his beloved European colleagues, and his retirement `tour´. To say he impacted my life is an under statement. I truly think of him often and retain much admiration for what he taught both verbally and by example. He was always a true gentleman who treated everyone with respect. Again, my sympathies and regards, Sincerely, Tony Andres.

Keith Stanfill

June 11, 2025

Dear Pam and family,

I am very sorry for your loss. Although I lost touch with Heinz over the last 9 years, I still think about him often. In 1999, he gave me a chance at the University of Florida to shepherd the Integrated Product and Process Design Program after his retirement. It was an incredible 19-year ride. More than 5000 students have benefited from that life-changing program since its inception in 1995. I figure well over 1,000,000 student hours have been spent changing the world --especially their worlds--for the better. I learned many lessons about persistence and integrity from Heinz and I've done my best to pay it forward.

I wish you peace in the coming days and comfort in your memories of Heinz.

With deepest sympathy,

Keith Stanfill
UF IPPD Director, 2001-2018

Teresa Conte

June 8, 2025

Uncle Heinz was one of the kindest people I´ve ever met. He was always willing to help and did it with elegance. I will always remember he´s quiet strength . He was a man to look to.

Donna Albertson "Christian"

June 1, 2025

Although I have not been with Heinz in years, his warm friendship, wonderful wit, and unique personality will always be remembered. Times as "next boat neighbors" with Heinz and Pam are treasures in my memory. It is sad to realize he is no longer here. I hope Pam will focus on what a blessed life they had for so many years when grief comes.

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