Richard Joseph Frey

Our beloved father Richard Joseph Frey, age 102, of Wayzata, MN was received into eternal life on January 14, 2025. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family.
His life was guided by his faith in God, love of family, dedication to his medical profession, and love of the outdoors. He will be remembered most as the Patriarch of the family. We will forever embrace this man of virtue, wisdom, and wit.
Richard was blessed with 58 years of marriage to Evelyn Louise Haedge. Together they raised 7 children. Richard enjoyed 18 loving years with his second wife Dottie Dekko, who preceded him in death December 15, 2024.
Richard graduated valedictorian from Cretin High School, graduated summa cum laude from the University of Saint Thomas and achieved a Doctor of Medicine degree with honors from the University of Minnesota in 1946. He was a WWII veteran serving as a ship doctor in the Pacific.
Dr. Frey was a distinguished physician and medical profession leader whose dedication to patient care and healthcare reform left an indelible mark on the field.
Renowned for his sharp intellect and compassionate approach, his achievements spanned decades of medical practice and professional leadership.
Richard was an Internist in private practice from 1953 to 1990 in Minneapolis. During these decades he was known for his diagnostic acumen. As a healthcare leader, he focused on the betterment of healthcare delivery throughout Minnesota. He was founding chairman of Minneota's Coalition on Health, its Health Care Cost Commission, and the Minnesota Health Network. He was president of key medical organizations and held board/advisory positions on many others.
Survived by his children Mary Frey Vacek (Gary), Catherine Frey Brunkow (Dr. Gary), Anne Frey Parsons (Mark), Dr. Gregory Frey (Kathy), Michael Frey (Karen), Barbara Frey Olson (Tim), 18 Grandchildren, 36 Great Grandchildren, Brother Gene Frey, Sister-in-law Rita Frey and many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn Louise Frey, his eldest son Richard Joseph Frey Jr. and brothers George Frey and Joseph Frey.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, January 17th at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 630 E. Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata with Visitation starting at 10:00 a.m.
Reception following at Wayzata Country Club, 200 Wayzata Blvd. W., Wayzata. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts can be sent to St. Bartholomew Church or made online at www.st-barts.org/giving in honor of Dr. Richard Frey.
Private Interment at Lakewood Cemetery.