Frederick Link Obituary
Fred attended the Birmingham public schools and went on to earn his BA from the University of Michigan, where he covered sports for the Michigan Daily. He then received his law degree from Harvard Law School, and a PhD in Economics from MIT, before working at a law firm in London, England and continuing his career in Zurich, Switzerland.
Fred was a massive fan of Detroit sports and regaled his daughter, Jayden, with stories of Steve Yzerman's Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers. He had a great fondness for the Upper Peninsula, enjoyed cross-country skiing and loved sledding in the Swiss Alpine town of Bergün. He adored his cat Casey.
Fred's quick wit, gentle patience and unwavering kindness enriched the lives of all who knew him. He will be remembered as warm and generous, with a razor-sharp intellect and a great sense of humor.
He is survived by his mother, Cynthia, of Birmingham, and his daughter, Helena (Jayden), of New York City.
He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Charles, and his father, Robert.
Memorial donations in his honor may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
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5 Entries
Jeff Eldridge
Yesterday
Fred's lack of pretension was as remarkable as his brilliance. He was often the smartest person in the room but mostly showed it when someone made the mistake of putting on airs without backing it up. He was as comfortable in the stands of Michigan Stadium or the corner of a greasy spoon as he was in a law-and-economics seminar. Few people were better to hang out with for a game. He was a legend at The Michigan Daily and will remain that way for many.
Joanie Nolder
Yesterday
Red and I thought a lot of Fred. He was always so kind and thoughtful. My heart goes out to my loving granddaughter and her mom.
Joanie Nolder (Nana).
Tera Miglio
Yesterday
Fred was an amazing man. His accomplishments always amaze me, as does his willingness to learn more and his eagerness to teach me what he has to offer. He and his brother, Charlie, always pushed me to be the best version of myself.
Fred always loved putting others first, helping those in need, and always taking care of everyone else around him. His love for his daughter, Jayden, always warmed my heart. He will forever be missed deeply but never forgotten. .
Daryn S Berger
Yesterday
Fred was so thoughtful and cared that people were treated fairly; he didn´t shy away from pointing out what should be addressed. He was so very intelligent, but could break down very complex issues, whether financial, political, or why a certain Michigan football offensive game plan was less than ideal. He will be missed by many.
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Bill Belknap
September 19, 2025
Fred was a one of a kind -brilliant, kind (with a sharp wit), and a true Michigan/Detroit sports fan. He was a great friend and an amazing person, the kind you brag about knowing. He´ll be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
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