Walter Frueh, MD

1972 - 2021

Walter Frueh, MD obituary, 1972-2021, Wilmington, NC

Walter Frueh, MD

1972 - 2021

BORN

1972

DIED

2021

Walter Frueh, MD Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 15, 2021.

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dr. Walter Frueh announces his untimely passing. He will be sadly missed by the love of his life, his wife Megan, and his five children Molly, Sofia, Liam, Miles, and Ella Mai. He will forever be remembered and cherished by his parents, Walter and Andrea, his sister Jennifer, her husband Henry, and their daughter Caroline.


He was a hands on and dedicated father. He placed great value in spending time with his immediate family as well as his extended family. He was a passionate spear fisherman, deep sea fisherman, boater, and music lover.


Dr. Frueh was a graduate of Colgate University and Thomas Jefferson Medical School, Philadelphia, PA. He did his residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and his fellowship at The Rothman Institute in Philadelphia. He was board certified by the American Board Association of Orthopedic Surgery/ He was a member of: American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, American Association/Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, Eastern Orthopedic Association, Southern Orthopedic Association, and the North Carolina Orthopedic Association. Dr. Frueh routinely lectured and has educated hundreds of surgeons on minimally invasive hip replacement.


He was an outstanding and compassionate surgeon beloved by all. He was a true friend who filled the lives of those around him with laughter. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him. The medical community lost a true giant with this gentle soul’s departure.


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June 3, 2025

Deborah Sullivan posted to the memorial.

November 9, 2023

Donna Lafayette La Fave posted to the memorial.

October 12, 2022

Ken McElynn, MD posted to the memorial.

162 Entries

Deborah Sullivan

June 3, 2025

So very sorry and sad to see the passing of this wonderful Doctor. Dr Frueh was wonderful to me 2010 he fixed my hip after a terrible car accident.
My condolences to his family and friends. Just reading this June 2025 . I was going to be in the area my husband and I was going to drop in to say hello at his office. RIP Sir . Prayers for his wife and family.

Donna Lafayette La Fave

November 9, 2023

You were a terrific doctor. You replaced both of my hips.

Ken McElynn, MD

October 12, 2022

I was a classmate of Walter's in medical school. I always noted his total dedication to being a surgeon. He was well-known in our class of 200+ (Class of 1999 - Jefferson Medical College). I knew Walter was going to be an excellent physician. I saw him years later in the Pittsburgh airport by chance, and he was very friendly. What a loss. I feel just terrible about this. I offer my deepest condolences to his family.

Julie Knowles

July 30, 2022

I was a patient of Dr. Frueh. He replaced both of my hips and was going to replace both of my knees. Sadly that won't happen. I trusted him so much. I could not have had a better surgeon. I miss him terribly

Sherrie West

July 7, 2022

We just found out Dr. Frueh passed away and such a shock. My husband had knee replacement five years ago and we could not have chosen a better doctor. My husband connected with him right away. I had searched to find the “best” orthopedic surgeon and all recommendations were for Dr. Frueh. He was so personable and professional. Our hearts goes out to the family.

Amy Turner

May 4, 2022

My family and I would like to send our Condolences. My mom had knee surgery about 5 years ago. Dr. Freuh was an excellent Doctor! I could go on and on about him but I am sure we are aware how he carried himself. We were very saddened to hear this news. We were going back for another replacement and was stunned by the news. My heart goes out to the family. We will pray for healing and strength.

Sandra Campbell

April 26, 2022

I have just heard the sad news that Dr. Frueh passed in November, 2021. Dr. Frueh performed my hip replacement operation in December, 2006, and I have much to thank him for for his expertise, kindness, and compassion during pre-surgery appointments and post-surgery appointments. The hip replacement surgery changed my life for the better, and Dr. Frueh was a lovely professional to interact with in difficult medical circumstances.

Evelyn Sandlin

April 25, 2022

Dr. Frueh did my hip replacement. He was a wonderful doctor. He did great on my surgery. I thought he was a very nice person. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. God Bless and comfort his family.

Andrew Malaro

April 22, 2022

My wife and I were in Wilmington today at Airlie Gardens and came upon a park bench dedicated to his memory. We were both shocked. We first met Dr Frueh in March of 2018 for a hip consultation. A few months later he replaced both my hips. He completely changed my life. He was an awesome doctor. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Denise Branch

March 22, 2022

Dr. Frueh was a wonderful Dr. He cared deeply for his patients. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.

Margaret Kessler

February 27, 2022

I was greatly shocked to hear of Dr Frueh"s death. I had just seen him in October. I really loved him being my surgeon for 13 years. He was a delight to know, so friendly , outgoing and a great Dr with the care for his patients. He was always very happy go lucky and he will truly be missed by all. God Bless to his family and my condolences for his loss.

Shanette Hines

January 6, 2022

Dr. Frueh had a great personality and wealth of knowledge. I'll always remember his kindness and compassion. May God watch over and strengthen his family. Psalm 23

Mary Fimbel

January 3, 2022

I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Dr. Frueh and extend my sincerest sympathy to all of his dear family. I had the pleasure of meeting with Dr. Frueh for a consultation regarding knee pain. He was very kind, professional, and prescribed treatment that helped tremendously. May Dr. Frueh Rest In Peace and may each member of his family be comforted and consoled in the days ahead.

Melissa Burns

December 18, 2021

I wanted to let you know how Dr. Frueh helped my parents. My mom Kathy Lewis had both of her knees replaced by him. My father Douglas Lewis had his hip replaced. He helped my parents walk without pain. They cried when I told him the news. He was such a blessing to my family! He will be so dearly missed! I am so sorry for your loss, I pray God comfort you during this difficult time. Melissa Burns

Christine Redmond

December 16, 2021

I JUST heard this tragic news!! Heartbreaking as it is, you have been blessed to have shared this life with such a man. Hold on to “The Master’s Hand”!! Prayers going up and tears coming down! ❤❤ A grateful patient!

Christine Bocker

December 14, 2021

I am absolutely stunned to have heard today that my favorite knee surgeon, Dr.Frueh has passed Away in the prime of his life! He would always remember me as the “Snake lady “ by the fact that when I first met him in 2010 I had a commutated fracture in my right femur.
My husband,Chip and I send our condolences to his wife Megan and their 5 children. You’re in our thoughts and prayers . May God bless and keep your family safe within His loving arms. So sorry for your loss.

sal migliara

December 12, 2021

My deepest condolences, Dr Frueh replaced both of my knees and gave me a new lease on life. I will forever be grateful.

Brenda Canal

December 8, 2021

Such a wonderful kind person. One of the great ones one remembers from High School teaching days. My love goes out to his family and friends. I feel the sadness one feels when a wonderful person has left this earth. Rest In Peace. Sending hugs❤❤

Judith Malewiacki

December 8, 2021

I was new to the area, and needed to see an Orthopedic Surgeon. I hadn't seen our new primary care Physician as of yet, so I started searching the Wilmington area. Found Emerge Ortho, Dr. Walter Frueh & Dr. Shawn Hocker. I picked Dr. Walter Frueh. He was also recommended by several other professionals.
On my consultation appointment, both my husband and I were truly impressed with his personality, demeaner, and professionalism. His introduction and smile was heart warming, beyond words. He did not rush us and took his time to explain all details to us. I could feel his compassion and how much he cared for all his patients. He performed my surgery on October 11, 2021.
I was so sadden to hear of the news of his passing and was totally devastated.
My Love and prayers go out to his wife and children, including his work family.
The area has lost one of the best Surgeons, but Heaven gained a special Angel!

Karen Tyndall

December 1, 2021

I was referred to Dr. Frueh by my manager after a failed hip replacement in 2019. Unfortunately my first surgeon did not detect my loose prothesis from any of the three X-Rays taken, but Dr. Frueh spotted it immediately! He performed my hip revision June 1, 2021 & was ecstatic over the success of the surgery. It was already apparent that I would need a hip replacement on the opposite hip so he mentioned this would need to be done early in 2022. The better hip got me through while recuperating from my hip revision while unable to put weight on this hip. During my follow-up visit which was also after I was able to put weight on my hip; I requested the earliest date possible for a hip replacement on the opposite hip. Fortunately for me he had a cancellation 08/16/2021. He told me I should be good for life with my hip replacements. I think God that he performed both surgeries! He truly was concerned about his patients & their well being. My heart aches for the loss his family is enduring, his colleagues & for his patients! A special prayer for all of those whose life he touched!

Dana Witt

November 28, 2021

He was an outstanding persona nd surgeon....a true loss to all that knew him and those who never did...we will miss you tremendously!

Nancy Celli

November 24, 2021

To the Family and Co-Workers of Dr Frueh:

My sincere condolences for the unexpected loss of your husband, father, child, brother, uncle and friend! I’m sure the grief is unforgiving. Hopefully the gratitude of having known such a wonderful man for as long as you did will lift your spirits from moment to moment. Enjoy the memories and photos you shared with him. Please know that he just recently operated on me twice, and was wonderful and professional throughout. I was so glad to have met him, and all of the doctors and staff at EmergOrtho. My prayers and thoughts are with you all, especially his wife. Godspeed Dr. Frueh! With my love,

Cluster of 50 Memorial Trees

Ann Zillitto

Planted Trees

Cheri Phillips

November 22, 2021

I was a patient of Dr. Freuh’s, I just learned of his passing. He will be missed very much not only by his family but, by his co workers and by those he helped with his abilities that made him a great surgeon. I pray that his Family will find love and comfort in this time of healing ❤

Cheryl Clark

November 20, 2021

I was a patient of Dr.Freuh’s. His excellence as a doctor and surgeon would be hard to surpass in my eyes. I am so saddened to hear of his passing and would like to express my deep condolences to his family.

Chuck Pennington

November 19, 2021

I am so sorry to learn of his passing. He did two hip replacements on my partner, Dennis Madsen. He was such a sensitive, compassionate, intelligent, and inspirational man. I am devastated. I wish the best to his family during these hard times. He was a great man who helped so many people to be able to have normal lives. God bless!

Susan Metcalf

November 19, 2021

Walter did both of my hip replacements in 2005 and 2008 and as a teacher in her 50s he brought me out of a world of pain and back into the sunlight. I am overwelmed by the news of his passing. My love goes to all of his family. We know he is in heaven because he was an angel here on earth.

Jill Stephens

November 18, 2021

I saw Dr Frue 3 weeks ago today in Ortho ED. When he told me my hip was busted, I freaked out (I had been using a walker for a month because I didn't want to go to hospital) He put me at ease immediately and was so kind and compassionate. I had a total hip replacement that afternoon and went home in 24 hours. No more pain. Easier recovery than I expected. A most wonderful physician he was.
My sincere condolences to his family, partners and coworkers.

Linda Rice

November 16, 2021

My heart is crushed to learn of his death. He was an amazing Doctor who was caring & passionate about his profession. He replaced my total hip in July with beautiful & caring expertise. When I learned I need total hip replacement I read all the blurbs about drs who performed this surgery & his name was on the top of the list. I am so grateful to have met him & will always cherish his caring & compassionate love for his profession. My deepest heartfelt sympathy to his family & friends. I will chose a star in the heavens & call it Dr. Walter.. twinkle down upon us..

Mr. & Mrs. Hosey

November 16, 2021

So sad to hear of your loss. My husband & I only met Dr. Frueh once but we were very impressed with his honesty & integrity. He was the one who bravely told us that there was nothing he nor the practice could do for my husband's pain. It could not be corrected with surgery. We will always be indebted to his honesty & dedication to the ethics of medicine. The loss to the community is a gain to the heavenly community.

November 15, 2021

Great doctor that I met when I needed a hip replacement and realized he was a Jersey guy and me a Jersey girl, we just hit it off. We talked about his kids and he shared pictures of the pup as I had just gotten a puppy in June 2021. He was a big gentle man and will be a big loss to the Orthopedic community for sure. Rest In Peace Doc

Lydia Phillips

November 15, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Patti Archibaud

November 15, 2021

I was a patient of Dr. Freuh's for several years and it saddens me to learn of his death. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. He will be missed and he was a great surgeon! Patti Archibaud

Katrina Morton

November 14, 2021

I met Dr. Frueh when he performed a hip replacement surgery on my father. He was a compassionate and kind man as well as a talented surgeon. I appreciated his skill and expertise in performing the hip replacement surgery that had my 90 year old father up and walking in short order. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to his wife and family. His loss to our community is profound. May God cover his family and coworkers with prayers and give them strength as they cope with his sudden passing.

Sandra Perry

November 13, 2021

I was a patient of Dr Fruehs for a long time. My heart is heavy for this great loss. Prayers for his wife and family. He will be greatly missed.

Ivan and Cheryl Dickman

November 13, 2021

What a wonderful gentleman and Doctor, my wife and I have had the privilege of having Dr Frueh as our surgeon. Always with a smile and a positive attitude
Rest In Peace our friend and Dr

November 13, 2021

If it were not for Dr Frueh, his talent and knowledge of his profession I would not be walking as I am pain free today,I have recommended him to so many people, Thank You Lord for the time you let us know him, Tom Reilly

Pat Fisher

November 11, 2021

Dr. Frueh was an amazing doctor. I’m in shock at the loss to his family, his practice and the patients he so lovingly cared for. He was so compassionate when I had to have revision surgery on my hip and he eased all my concernshe will be sorely missed. I can’t imagine going in for my appt in December and not seeing him

Danyce Dicks

November 11, 2021

Sincere and heartfelt prayers to the family, friends, patients and co-workers

Marilyn & Bob Jaten

November 11, 2021

Our friendship with the Frueh family goes back 70 years and we have followed the growth of each other's children with great interest. Walter Jrs success as a student, husband, father and doctor was wonderful and his death was an unimaginable shock. We send our deepest sympathies to Megan and children and pray for their peace and recovery. To our very dear friends Andrea and Shorty we share the pain in your heart having lost Stephen- how fragile lives can be. May God comfort you both and you have our eternal love and caring. Marilyn & Bob

Sharon Day

November 11, 2021

Dr. Frueh was such an Amazing surgeon!!! He did both of my hip replacements & will miss him! So very sorry for your loss.

Dee Chavez

November 11, 2021

My prayers and sympathy goes out to the family of Dr. Frueh. His welcoming smile when you met him, his caring and concern as he cared for me during my two knee replacements have never been forgotten in the past 6 years since I had them replaced. May the happy memories you have of him help you through this difficult time and the times ahead.

Linda Torres

November 10, 2021

This past summer I had the honor of meeting Dr. Frueh when I took my mother for a first meeting and consultation to address pain she was having with her hip.
He was very attentive and patient as my sister and I explained my mother’s condition. He waisted no time in getting my mom to imaging and assessing her situation.
I was impressed at the way he explained exactly what was going on and what would happen if mom didn’t get surgery.
We left his office feeling confident in Dr. Fruehs expertise that he would take excellent care of my mom.
We were to have an appointment with him on November 3rd at 1:20 but we had to cancel that appointment because my son wasn’t able to take my mom on that date.
Then I got the call that Dr. Frueh had passed. Although I didn’t know him, I felt a loss. It is with sadness that I send condolences to Dr. Frueh’s wife, children, parents, siblings and his family as well as his medical family. Prayers up.
Thank you Dr. Frueh.

William Jones

November 10, 2021

Sending prayers of comfort and healing for family and friends. Dr. Frueh touched so many lives. His contagious smile brightened many peoples lives. GOD BLESS. William Jones.

Barbara chilcot

November 10, 2021

He was the best Dr. he replaced my hip he was the best. No one can replace him

Barbara Ziemba

November 10, 2021

My the Grace of our Lord bring you and your family peace. Dr. Frueh was my Doctor, a kind compassionate and excellent Physician/Surgeon that always had a smile. He will truly be missed Barbara Ziemba

James Juma

November 10, 2021

I have prepped many of Dr. Fruehs patients over the years at the Orthopedic center and he was always very nice to me. All of us cried at work, full of disbelief and sorrow. I will miss that distinctive voice of his and pray for his family and loved ones.

Theresa Carey

November 10, 2021

My deepest sympathies to Dr. Frueh’s family. He was a gifted and talented surgeon. He replaced my hip last year, returned my mobility. I will be forever grateful, he will be missed.

Sylvia Lewis

November 10, 2021

Words cannot express how saddened I was to hear of Dr. Walter Frueh’s passing. With a heavy heart, I am sending my deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to Dr. Frueh’s wife and children, his parents, his siblings and their families, his co-workers and his many friends.
I was very blessed to have been a patient of Dr. Frueh in 2019 when he performed my knee replacement. He gave me back my mobility and my life. I adored him.
I will always cherish the memory of Dr. Frueh. Not only, was he a brilliant, gifted and talented surgeon; he was very compassionate, kind, and so caring. I will forever be grateful for this wonderful doctor.

Norma Mackie

November 10, 2021

My mother and I just now heard about Dr. Walter’s passing. He was a godsend to my mom. He did here double knee replacement surgery. Our hearts are heavy with sadness. He was a giant in his field. He was kind and so compassionate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family. ❤

Terri Lehr

November 10, 2021

So sad for you. Walter sounds like a wonderful guy. I saw his picture as I was looking for my cousin. And I started reading some of the comments and his obituary. His passing is a great loss for not only your family and community, but for the world in general. Such people don't come along often. One of God's special angels now.
May God bless you all.

Sharon Klonoski

November 9, 2021

I learned of Dr. Frueh’s passing yesterday. One of my clients recommended him to me to get me out of pain. He did my total hip replacement on my left hip in 2017 and am deeply grateful to have had such an amazing surgeon to do my surgery. I extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and all those whose lives were forever changed by knowing him or having his talented surgical hands get his patients back on their feet and restoring mobility. May God surround his family with his love and peace and strength during this time.

Julie Rogers

November 9, 2021

Walter fixed Both of my hips within 2 months any my husbands knee. One of the most funny and practical doctors that seemed happy to have helped his patients . He asked me if I was glad to decide to do the two surgeries and I said YEsYES YES .... loved the man!!!!!

Barbara Smith-Walker

November 9, 2021

I am a patient of Dr. Freuh and am sad to hear of his passing. He was a wonderful, caring doctor and surgeon and my friends from Brooklyn became his patient because of his professional and wonderful care.
My prayers are for the family and know that God cares about you.

Kathleen McCarthy

November 9, 2021

I am so saddened by Dr. Frueh’s passing and humbly offer my sincere condolences to his wife, children, family and all who knew and loved him, and there are so many. Dr. Frueh was not only a phenomenal surgeon, a brilliant yet humble medical professional and a compassionate, humorous and caring human being. May the love and prayers of all who were fortunate enough to know him bring comfort to his family.

Jim Leach

November 9, 2021

Walter and my son Travis were college roommates. When we suffered a house fire, Walter helped us resettle. More than 20 years later, when my artificial hip was failing, Travis sent Walter my xrays. From afar, he diagnosed the issue and helped me find a doctor who resolved my case and restored my mobility. Like the many others on this site who were personally touched by Walter's kindness, I mourn the loss of a friend and extend my deepest sympathies to his family.

Kathy Carter

November 9, 2021

I just found out about this today. I am heartbroken. Dr. Frueh did my knee replacements. The left September 3, 2019 and the right December 3, 2019. I absolutely loved him. He had the best bedside manner. He had me laughing the next day after surgery. I recommended him to everyone I knew having knee problems. I tell people having these surgeries was the best thing I ever did. I just can't imagine going to anyone else. You will be missed, Dr. Frueh.

Pamela Hinson

November 9, 2021

I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Fruehs passing. I worked with him at Atlantic Orthopedic and he was a kind, patient Dr. With his patients and his patients loved him. He just replaced my mother's hip and she did great and is still doing well from the surgery. He was so kind and personal with her and she as one of his patients also loved him. My hear, thoughts and prayers go to his family, friends, patients and co-workers.

Sandra Strobel

November 9, 2021

I met Dr. Freuh when he worked at the Rothman institute in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. He was one of my doctors when I had a hip replacement done. He moved to the Wilmington area about the same time I did. I continued to see him for all my orthopedic problems. I had a knee replacement done just this year. He was such a sweet and competent doctor. I will definitely miss him.

The family, friends, and coworkers are all in my prayers. I know this is such a big loss to all of you.

Jennie Price

November 9, 2021

I just heard about Dr. Frueh. He was an outstanding doctor who took good care of me. My sympathy to all of his family. I'm so sorry.

Susan Lynch

November 9, 2021

I am truly grateful for the care I received from Dr. Frueh. My thoughts and prayers are with your family through your difficult time of loss. May God bring you comfort and peace.

William F. Brown

November 9, 2021

I was a patient of Dr Frueh twice. He replaced both of my hips and I could not have been treated any better. If anyone asked for a doctor to replace hips or knees, the next word out of my mouth was "Dr Frueh because in my opinion he is the best. Praying for the family.

William Guthrie

November 9, 2021

Excellent doctor for both my wife and me.

Jeanette Pearsall

November 9, 2021

Dr. Frueh was my wonderful surgeon and he will be missed. He replaced my left hip and was to teplace my right knee and hip. I had an appointment with him the morning of Nov. 3. My heart was broken. Prayers for the family, Jeanette Pearsall

Tony Dunn

November 9, 2021

RIP

Leslie Ricker

November 9, 2021

On behalf of my family we are saddened by the passing of Dr Frueh. He operated on our elderly father twice for his knee and hip replacement. Dad being hard of hearing, Dr Frueh was so patient and kind, speaking slowly and clearly for him to understand. He motivated dad with compassionate and encouraging words to continue the hard work of rehab. A gentile giant has been lost. Sending sincere condolences to his wife, children, family including his work family! May God comfort all with His Peace

Mike Nevin

November 9, 2021

I, too was shocked when I heard Dr. Frueh had passed. He replaced my second hip in September and he was as friendly and outgoing as I remembered from the first surgery. My condolences to his wife and family. It's hard to say goodbye to someone who has given you back your mobility and freedom.

Andrea Lukowski

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was one of the best orthopedic surgeons I had the pleasure of working with for 10 years at Atlantic Orthopedics. His was a truly gifted surgeon. His laugh was contagious. It's such a shame to hear of his death. My condolences to his family, partners and patients during this time of grief.

NANCY ADELIS

November 8, 2021

I was totally shocked and dismayed to hear of Dr. Freuh"s passing. He operated on me three times and during those times his number 1 concern was for me the patient. He jumped through hoops on my behalf.

I can not imagine the depth of grief his family may be experiencing, it is so very sad.

With sincerest condolences.
Nancy Adelis

G Baxter

November 8, 2021

I was extremely fortunate to be his patient. He replaced both of my knees with the left one replaced on 17 November last year giving me back mobility and quality of life. The world has lost a skilled surgeon with a remarkable bedside manner and great personality. My humble and heartfelt condolences to the Frueh family.

Linda Laroussini

November 8, 2021

I am heartbroken to hear we have lost such a truly amazing man, and offer my condolences to all who knew and loved him. In the last three years, Dr Frueh replaced both of my knees and both of my hips. He literally gave me my life back, operating on my right hip less than two weeks ago. And I am saddened beyond belief that when he came by my hospital room just before discharge, it was the last time I will ever hear his kind and wonderfully compassionate voice. Offering prayers for peace to his family and friends during this most difficult time.

Diane Hunter

November 8, 2021

He was my doctor and yes I loved his smile and compassion and professionalism. He will be greatly missed and my sympathies to both his family and work family. Gone too soon!!

Martina Christie

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was a top notch orthopedic surgeon and as a former patient, I was saddened to hear of his passing. My prayers to his family, his staff and colleagues, such a loss to many.

Rosalind Lucas

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was the best doctor and person I ever met. He repaired 2 hips and 2 knees. He encouraged me all the way and made sure I stayed safe and smiling. I will forever miss him and I pray I never need anymore repairs. You can chill now Frueh. Jesus can take it from here. .

Betty Mabe

November 8, 2021

May God comfort you and your family he was the most compassionate Dr I had everyone will miss him so much

Peggy Davis

November 8, 2021

I am still adjusting to hearing of the passing of Dr. Frueh. He replaced my right hip in May & left hip in July. Unfortunately left hip area got an infection & he was scheduled to put the new hip in next month. He was a wonderful doctor who knew I was always going to have questions for him & he would take the time to answer them! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, co-workers and patients. He will be truly missed.

Layne Helwig

November 8, 2021

He was a true light. At our little parish in Salter Path, we fondly referred to him as our Parish Doctor. He help so many of us and each and every one truly cared for him, admired his brilliance and dedidication. Our hearts are heavy and our prayers are with the Frueh family during this time. He will not be forgotten, he helped so many. He was always very kind and understanding. Godspeed, Dear Doctor.

Rebecca Hicks

November 8, 2021

I was so very lucky in my nursing career to be a part of a great team that Dr. Frueh developed in the Operating Room in Wilmington, North Carolina. I have never come across a better group of colleagues. My heart goes out to my former coworkers, friends, and especially to his family. In loving memory of a wonderful person. May you all lean on each other in this time of great sadness..

Jean Credle

November 8, 2021

He was a wonderful surgeon who replaced my knees. He gave me the gift of pain free walking and exercising. He will be sorely missed.

Eva Adams-Myers

November 8, 2021

My deepest sympathy to Dr. Frueh's wonderful wife, Megan and adorable children, his friends, colleagues, coworkers, and patients. I pray God's Grace and Mercy will sustain you in the days, months, and years ahead. No one can take away your wonderful memories. God bless and keep each of you forever. (Tennille's mom)

Kathleen Mclean barnes

November 8, 2021

Such a brilliant doctor, I had the pleasure of him doing both my knees with perfection. May you rest now Dr Frueh

Marcia Powers

November 8, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Christina Dresp

November 8, 2021

To say I was stunned by the news received this morning of the passing of Dr. Frueh would not even come close to the impact it made. He was a gifted surgeon and clearly a beloved husband, father and friend. The world has lost a precious point of light. I was blessed to be one of his patients and will be forever grateful for it. Peace to all who loved him and prayers for his family.

mURRAY sEIDEL, M.D.

November 8, 2021

Walter was a truly dedicated and hard working physician. I was in the group that recruited him for ATLANTIC ORTHOPEDICS. we never regretted that decision. He treated his patients well and I personally liked Walter. My heartfelt condolences to your family. Memories of Walter will help brighten those sad days. He was a great colleague and physician.

Andrea Tucker

November 8, 2021

One of the best doctors I have had the pleasure of meeting. Condolences to the family, he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Monica Shorts

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was a amazing surgeon who replaced my mothers hip twice. My mother is terribly saddened by the news of Dr. Freuh's passing. Prayers and deepest condolences to the family. My mother's name is Andrea Tucker of Burgaw N.C.

Mona Jenkins

November 8, 2021

He was definitely a light in this world. I met him at church a few time. A beautiful soul that will be missed! Praying for families comfort.

Mark Bowersox

November 8, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Such a tragic loss of a great doctor. He will be truly missed by all who he helped.

Thomas & Marilyn Blackstone

November 8, 2021

Our deepest sympathy to his family and children for the loss.

Peggy Keenan

November 8, 2021

What a tragic loss for all who knew Dr. Frueh! I am shocked and saddened by his passing as I have lost my doctor. Our community has lost a wonderful surgeon and human being, but my heart goes out to his family. May God comfort you in your grief. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Wanda Anderson

November 8, 2021

I’m heartbroken for the family. Dr. Freuh did my knee replacement in May, 2021. I never saw him without a warm smile, his compassion was genuine. Our community has lost a beautiful soul and a surgically gifted man. May God comfort his loved ones.

Julia LeBer

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was a master at his job. He replaced both of my hips over a three year period. When I went in to see him for hip #2, he remembered me immediately acknowledging I had been a scuba diver with his buddies Lowell and Andy. I am shocked and so saddened by his loss. Prayers are out for his wife, children and extended family.

Laura Roebuck

November 8, 2021

Condolences to the family at this time, and prayers lifted for all. He was a great doctor and will be missed by many.

carolyn leitch

November 8, 2021

he replaced both my knees in 2016 he was a awesome surgeon prayers to his family

Tina Nenno

November 8, 2021

Godspeed

Marsha Long

November 8, 2021

My condolences goes out to his entire family. He will be missed and just know he is in good hands. The Lord is watching over him and all of you too. He will never be forgotten.

Marsha Long

November 8, 2021

Dr. Frueh was a very nice person. I met him when he came to work for Atlantic Orthopedics. I was his transcriptionist and he came upstairs with a disk and wanted me to retype everything on it. It was a job, but I was happy to do it. He was always smiling and polite. I will Miss hearing his voice as he dictates. His love for his family here at Emergeortho was always felt. His caring for his patients was shown every time that he treated them whether for an office visit or surgery. He will truly be remembered and missed. RIP and I hope you are having a wonderful time sailing around up there and I know Marcia is sitting there talking to you and holding your hand as she walks you through those gaits.

Gidget Karlof

November 8, 2021

My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. He was an awesome doctor who replaced my knees, one in 2009 and then in 2019. He will be missed by all.

Catherine Parello

November 7, 2021

I am shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of Dr. Frueh who just replaced my hip in August. My condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time. May you find solace in remembering all that he was to you and the many lives he helped heal.

Domenic Palagruto

November 7, 2021

Deepest condolences - I only know Walter through our mutual patients. They all held him in the highest esteem for his care and professionalism. Regretfully I never had the chance to meet him personally, but the fact that he was a terrific surgeon and person shone through in the words and way his patients spoke about him. I am sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Mick Palagruto, DO

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June 3, 2025

Deborah Sullivan posted to the memorial.

November 9, 2023

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October 12, 2022

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