Anthony Stewart Frey

Anthony Stewart Frey passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Known for his sharp wit, generous humor, and lifelong intellectual curiosity, he enriched the lives of family, friends, and colleagues. He will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.

Born in San Francisco and raised in Dayton, Ohio, Tony grew up surrounded by a large and lively extended family. His fascination with the built environment began early; as a child, he frequently paused at construction sites on his way to school, studying the work with such interest that punctuality became a secondary concern. His passion for architecture took root during his teenage years, when he was granted access to a historic Dayton home that became a formative influence.

Tony earned a degree in Architecture from Ohio University, where he also met his future wife, Suzanne Ream, a fine arts major. He later completed a Masters degree in Urban Planning at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He went on to serve in planning roles for both the City of Madison and the City of Atlanta. Together, he and Suzanne raised two daughters. Their youngest, who had intellectual disabilities and significant health challenges, inspired the family's deep involvement in what was then the Association for Retarded Citizens. Tony held statewide leadership roles and contributed to the development of support systems for families navigating similar experiences.

Never one to limit his interests, Tony later launched Madison's first craft brewery, Capital Brewery. He raised the capital necessary to fund its startup and imported copper kettles and a brewmaster from Germany. Upon returning to Atlanta, he continued architectural work with several firms and independently. He maintained a lifelong commitment to having at least one ongoing project in the basement workshop, which always involved a large amount of enthusiasm and sawdust.

A devoted reader and lifelong learner, Tony explored philosophy, history, science, and culture with equal enthusiasm. He served as the family historian and documentarian, preserving stories and reflections for future generations. For his grandchildren, he compiled Notes on Wisdom, a collection of insightful observations:

"Little in life is certain other than my good looks and I cannot die young."

"Emotional maturity takes a long time. I'm not there yet."

"Take life only as seriously as necessary. It's rather short."

"Being smart has nothing to do with intelligence or knowledge, and everything to do with the decisions you make."

"Find humor in life. It keeps me sane."

"Never stop learning, it's my greatest pleasure."

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, George and Polly Frey; his siblings, Don and Margaret Frey; and his daughter, Krista Frey. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne (Ream) Frey; his daughter, Beth (Gary) Andresen; and his grandchildren, Julia and Ray Andresen.

A celebration of life will follow later, reflecting his belief that life is best honored through shared stories, laughter, and continued curiosity.