Lieutenant Colonel Donald Eilert Fries, 81, of Peoria, went home to be with the Lord, at 4:55 a.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at Farmington Country Manor.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at Christian Assembly Church in Peoria, with Reverend Terry Goode officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20, 2018, at the church. Interment will follow the service at Historic Springdale Cemetery, with military rites provided by the United States Air Force.
Don was born on December 31, 1936 in Manito, a son of John Roland and Marjorie Ethyl (Wilson) Fries. He married Susan Ellen Porter on June 4, 1986 in San Antonio, TX. She survives.
He is also survived by his children, Rhoda (Chad) Mason and Deborah (the late Steve) Winchell, both of Washington; grandchildren, Couri (Amanda Guzman) Fries, Chase and Chance Mason, Rhoda Winchell, Joshua (Robin) Fries and several other grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, Maryann (Reverend Terry) Goode of East Peoria, Jim (Kris) Fries of Springfield and Larry (Marilee) Fries of St. Cloud, FL; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, John “Jack” Fries.
Don retired from the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel, after 35 years of service. He and his wife participated in Civil War Reenactments. He loved the Lord with his whole heart and soul. He was a faithful servant and was loved and respected by many. His family is at peace knowing he is at home rejoicing with Jesus, his Savior.
Memorial contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to Christian Assembly Church.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Clary Funeral Home, 3004 West Lake Avenue, in Peoria.
