Charles L. Frey

Charles Lee Frey, 71, Jamestown, died Tuesday, September 6, 2011, in Jamestown, ND. Charles was born August 22, 1940, in Jamestown. He was the son of Herman and Gladys Frey and the grandson of Charles and Minnie Frey, who were the earliest settlers of Bloom Township, staking their homestead claim in 1878. He attended St. John's Academy, distinguishing himself as an athlete in football and track and graduating in 1958. He excelled as an athlete, but was quick to credit his teammates and coaches. He attended Jamestown College, where he played football. He married Mary Ellen Seitz on July 6, 1963, at St. James Catholic Church.

He took over the homestead and farmed and raised cattle until his death. He was one of the first in the region to raise Simmental cattle and received the Pioneer Award from the North Dakota Simmental Association in 2003. He had a passion for his family, friends, classmates, cattle, farming, football and classic cars. He belonged to the Jamestown Car Club, the Minnesota Street Rod Association and the Riviera Owner's Association. He made and cultivated numerous lifelong friendships, and his ease with people endeared him to others. He was loved and respected by many.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen; two sons, Charles (Shari), Brainerd, MN, and Jason (Kara Bartlett), Jamestown, and three grandchildren, Riley, Lawson and Liam.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Carol Ann Jacobson.

Prayer Service: 7:00 p.m. Friday, St. James Basilica, Jamestown.

Eucharist of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. Saturday, St. James Basilica, Jamestown, with Father Al Bitz officiating.

Burial: Highland Home Cemetery, Jamestown, with lunch following at the Zebedee Center, 214 4th St. SE, Jamestown.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers to St. John's Academy, 215 5th St. SE, Jamestown, ND 58401.