Ned Millard Friece

Ned Millard Friece of Wilmington, NC passed away Friday, November 16, 2018 surrounded by family.  Born November 29, 1947, he grew up in New Holland, Ohio. He was a graduate of Miami-Trace High School and later attended Morehead State University in Kentucky where he met his beautiful wife. After college he began his career as a Federal Law Enforcement Agent, working for the United States Postal Service, the Department of Labor, the General Accounting Office, and ended his career at the Office of Special Investigations in Washington, D.C.  He and his wife settled their roots in Manassas, VA.  Where they made many lifelong friends and countless memories.  After 27 years working for the Federal Government he was ready to hang it up and spend much needed time with his family and friends.  In 2005 he and his wife relocated to Wilmington, NC and built a home on a golf course, at the beach…….so their kids would come visit.

His zest for life was contagious and he was always the life of the party, he rarely missed a karaoke night at the clubhouse.  Ned never knew a stranger which made their transition to Wilmington so seamless, the community welcomed him and his family with open arms where they have yet again made lifelong friends.  His personality was contagious, always willing to lend a hand and go above and beyond to help a friend. His wisdom was profound, and he was always there to lend advice, an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on.  He never failed to make everyone feel like they were family, always wanting to give a hug.  He always found levity in any situation because he wouldn’t hear of someone having a bad day.  Ned was an avid golfer, he started playing at the age of 10 and through his years was able to become scratch at one point.  His retirement years led to endless rounds of golf with “the boys” and if you couldn’t find him on the course he was probably heading up a “BORED MEETING” at the clubhouse.  Family came first above all for Ned, his world revolved around his grandchildren.  He never missed the opportunity to attend a school function or sporting event, he loved to watch his grandbabies play.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 47 years, Elaine; daughter, Monica Outten (husband Gregory) of Williamsburg, VA; son, Timothy Friece (wife Crystal) of Wilmington, NC; grandchildren William Outten (14), Maddison Friece (7), and Piper Friece (2); cousins Steve Lewis (wife Mary) of Washington Courthouse, OH and Teresa Ann VanBuskirk (husband Gary) of Ohio; as well as countless friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held January 5, 2019, from 2-4pm at the Beau Rivage Golf and Resort in Wilmington, NC.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association on his behalf.