Reuben Walter Frey

1921 - 2012

Reuben Walter Frey went to join his son, Craig Frey, on the 26th of October. Reuben was 90 years-old, born on December 23rd, 1921, to Adolf and Christine (Klein) Frey, the youngest son of 10 children. A native of Lodi, Reuben played football (and was inducted into the Hall of Fame) for Lodi High School's undefeated championship team of 1942. Reuben served in World War II as a part of the Army Air-Corps, where he helped build air-strips on Okinawa, and served as a Military Police Officer. Upon return from his military service, he married Evanda Rivinius. The newly married Freys built their home and raised three sons. Reuben was employed for 34 years with General Mills where he was a valued employee and friend to many. Reuben was an avid gardner and outdoorsman. He enjoyed time in the mountains building an incredible cabin, in addition to hunting, skiing, and especially fishing. Reuben was also famous for his home-made Zinfandel and Cabernet blended wines, which he and his family picked, pressed, and bottled with equipment he made himself. Friends and family often enjoyed his company in the cool comfort of his cellar sipping the latest vintages. He generously shared his wines with friends and family and provided bottles for many family gatherings and events. After retirement, Reuben enjoyed his walks and talks around the neighborhood. He never met a stranger. He enjoyed working on building projects with his family. When not building, socializing with friends, or wine-making, Reuben enjoyed time spent with his grand-children and great grand-children. Reuben was loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Reuben is survived by his wife of 63 years, Evanda, two sons, Philip (and Jackie) of Monterey and Rodney (and Jorge Barrera) of San Antonio, Petere Miner surviving wife of Craig of Los Altos, sister Rachel Viglienzone of Stockton, along with 8 grand-children and 9 great grand-children.
A small private service is being held at River Fountains of Lodi, where Reuben spent his last 18-months, in their loving assisted-care facility. An open celebration of Reuben's life is being planned for his birthday on December 23rd, when the entire family can gather. Celebration details will be publicized as the event draws closer.
Remembrances may be made to Hospice of San Joaquin (www.hospicesj.org), 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton, Ca 95204-1953, or another charity of your liking.