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THOMAS FRIES Obituary
Nov. 24, 1934 Jan. 28, 2024
Tom Fries of San Diego, CA passed away on January 28, 2024 at the age of 89, surrounded by loved ones.
He was born and raised in Fresno, CA. He received his Bachelor of Arts at Fresno State, followed by a Masters Degree from Claremont McKenna College. Always a student he then received his law degree while working full time for LA County and starting a family. Tom and his wife, Joanne, moved to the Imperial Valley with their 4 children in 1974 as he received an opportunity to work in the County Counsels office. He soon became the County Counsel and proudly served for many years.
He accomplished much professionally but it is the joy, love, and kindness he radiated for which he will be most remembered.
His jovial and giving manner is attested by his many friends and those he mentored throughout his career.
Most who knew him will remember Tom with a big cigar in his mouth sitting behind his chess table as there was nothing Tom was more passionate about than chess. He started playing in high school and never stopped, garnering him the position of high expert. He amassed one of the largest chess libraries in the state and it was a great source of pride. His library has been donated in his honor to the San Diego Chess Club, where Tom was an active member for the last 25 years.
Tom was one who would do all he could to make anyone smile. He would be the first to shake a hand and give a kiss to every woman in the room. His warmth and kindness will never be forgotten, and it is our hope that people continue to practice the unconditional love and kindness he embodied.
Tom was preceded in death by his son, Mark and wife, Joanne. He is survived by his 3 daughters, Caryn, Kristen, and Dianne. Ryan Omer husband to Kristen; and their children, Zack and Samantha. Paul Johnson, husband to Dianne, and their children, Nathan, Marc, Brett, and Hannah.
In lieu of flowers please donate to your local chess club.
A celebration of life luncheon will be held on February 9, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Jaliscos Bar and Grill in El Centro, CA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS FRIES
Henry J. Foster
March 9, 2024
I had the pleasure of working with Tom at the Bureau of Public Assistance in Los Angeles County during the early 1970's. He was a very pleasant person, very bright and very nice to be around.
May God bless his family and know he is in heaven playing chess with God.
Hank Foster
L. A. County Data Processing
1958-1972
Living in Dallas, Texas
Norm Newhouse
February 11, 2024
It was nice seeing you girls Friday. Nice luncheon.
Sean Cherland
February 9, 2024
The Cherland Family extends our heartfelt condolences to the Fries. Tom Fries was a wonderful mentor to my younger brothers Carl and Derek and many others through the chess club. We appreciate his guidance and mentorship and will sincerely miss him. He was an earnest and caring role model to my brothers, and a tremendous asset to our community.
Derek Cherland
February 9, 2024
Thomas Fries had so much energy and enthusiasm, especially when playing chess ,he taught me and number of kids the fundamentals of chess at a chess club on main street . I remember he could rewind a chess game in his head and show you where you made your mistakes. Thomas could make anyone laugh and in chess that's challenging .He will be sorely missed.
Deborah O Cress
February 6, 2024
On behalf of my family, please receive our deepest condolences for the passing of Mr. Fries.
Michael Saydah
February 4, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Fries family.
Orlando Foote
February 4, 2024
I had a lot of interaction with TOM over the years and guarded him as a fine lawyer, and an excellent person. He was honest and straightforward and a credit to the law profession. My very best to Tom´s family. Orlando Foote.
Richard and Elaine Stamper
February 3, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Barbara Howington
February 3, 2024
Sending the Fries family my condolences. Prayers for peace and light.
Barbara Kline Howington
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