Richard Frees

Richard Conrad "Dick" Frees, 94, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, in Hughson, California. Born on January 10, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dick lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, learning, and a deep appreciation for family, the arts and human connection.

Dick graduated from Norwood High School in Norwood, Ohio, before pursuing higher education at several esteemed institutions. He studied at the University of Florida in Gainesville and later attended the Armed Forces Information School at Fort Slocum in New Rochelle, New York. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Theatre from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where he was recognized on the Dean's Honor List for his academic excellence.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy during the Korean War, Dick served four years as a Yeoman First Class at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida & aboard the USS F.M. Robinson, a Buckley-class destroyer. His honorable service was recognized with both the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Following his military service and academic pursuits, Dick embarked on a diverse professional journey. He began his career with Seybold Paper Company in Cincinnati and Kahn's Meats in Cincinnati. After graduating Miami University, he transitioned into education as a teacher at Davidson Middle School in San Rafael, California. Later, he found success as an insurance underwriter with Employers Insurance of Wausau and Industrial Indemnity in San Francisco, and Crum & Forster in Chicago.

Dick's life was enriched by a wide array of interests that reflected his dynamic personality. He had a lifelong passion for the arts; theatre, reading, singing and music. An avid sports enthusiast, he followed the San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants with great enthusiasm. He also loved movies and participated actively in physical activities such as ice skating, swimming, tennis, bowling, Zumba, Tai Chi—and was a bridge & bingo player.

He found joy attending Shakespeare festivals & Oktoberfests and engaging with others through social gatherings that showcased his quick wit and wonderful smile. Those who knew him remember him as loving, open-minded, fun-loving yet hardworking—and an intelligent man who never stopped learning.

Dick is survived by his daughter Amy Frees; son Rick Frees; daughter-in-law Christie Nelson; former wife Lois Frees; and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry forward his memory with affection.

He was preceded in death by his parents Magdalena Margaret Frees and Edward Robert Frees; sisters Augusta Irwin, Madeline Frech, Gertrude Robertson; brother William Frees; as well as several nieces.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

In honor of Dick's life and values, donations may be made to The Hunger Project (110 W 30th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10001).

Richard Conrad "Dick" Frees' lived a great life and may his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

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