Marlon Fred Fries

Marlon Fred Fries was born on February 19th, 1961, in Atlantic, Iowa to Marvin Fries & Mardyll Fries (Christensen). He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Mitchell Fries, his niece Marlynn and nephew Mason, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a few very dear friends.

He is survived by his wife and best friend Susie Fries (Meirose) and their two children. Son Brian Fries, his wife, Amanda (Young) their son Bradley, and daughter Tilly. Daughter Amanda Fries, her significant other Tyson Weeks and his 3 children. Also survived by his sister Marcy Young, many nieces, nephews, and many cousins a few that are like siblings.

When you first saw Marlon, you might have thought of him as a Hip Billy (Hippie Hill Billy). He loved a good practical joke and was very much a smart ass. Beneath all that his eyes lit up when he smiled, and he made everyone feel welcome. It was easy to like him, and I am sure just one of the many reasons Susie fell in love with him. They were committed to each other for over 44 years and looking forward to many more years to come.

Starting at the age of 11 he worked in his family’s printing business before he owned his own lawn care business for over 25 years. He did not mind hard work; in fact, he enjoyed it. He took pride in what he did as well as having relationships with his customers. Upon his passing, many clients reached out to the family and shared kind words expressing that Marlon was a kind soul, special person, always went above and beyond and they never had to worry about the work he did for them. His daughter Amanda was lucky enough to work side by side with him for ten out of the 25 years.

We each have our own memory of Marlon and can agree on his love and enthusiasm for the outdoors. Some of his best times were with Wayne in Wisconsin, hunting and fishing and living off the land. His amazing trips with his son Brian to Alaska and coming back sharing stories and photos with everyone about their great adventures. He also loved anything with a motor and tried everything, motorcycles, sand rail, ATVs, snowmobiles, and even the family boat.

Away from work, Marlon had a creative side. He was a visual learner and picked up things quickly.

He loved sunrises, gardening, woodworking, and taxidermy. He liked to start the morning relaxing in the hot tub before a long day’s work and then soaking again after snow removal. Musically talented, a favorite escape was sitting and playing his guitar for anyone who would listen. He was always young at heart and played endless games with his grandkids at home and on family trips, never missing out on sharing hugs with all of them.

To you Marlon, we would just like to say thank you for everything we shared, the memories created and the life our family built together.

Rest in peace baby, Dad, Papa Marlon, and friend. You will always be loved, missed, and forever remembered. Here’s to your eternity in heaven sitting in a duck blind with Hoss. Until we meet again.