Russell J. Frey

Russell J. Frey was born November 9, 1915 on a farm near Pitzer, Iowa, the son of George and Clara (Jackson) Frey. Russell attended grade school in Jackson Township and graduated from Earlham High School in 1934. He began farming after graduation and continued farming until 1941, when he joined the United States Army at the beginning of World War II. His marriage to Martha Lytle took place on March 12, 1943 and this union lasted a very happy 53 years, until Martha gave up a 25-year fight with cancer in 1996. Russell is survived by his two sons, Michael Frey of Denver, CO and Nick Frey and wife, Angie of Santa Rosa, CA; a brother, Richard Frey of Winterset; 3 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two sisters and a great grandson. Russell farmed near Winterset most of his life. He also worked for Madison County, grading the roads of Jackson Township. He lived and worked his farm until his move to Madison Square at the age of 87. Russell enjoyed his family and would make visits to see them as often as possible. He lived by simple, but powerful values. Hard work, honesty, concern of others and the golden rule have been the values that have defined the way Russell lived his life, and the example he sets for others. Russell died Monday, March 24, 2008 at Taylor Hospice House in Des Moines, Iowa. He was 92. Visitation: Winterset Cemetery. Service: Memorial contributions may be directed to the Taylor Hospice House in Des Moines and the First United Presbyterian Church of Winterset (c/o Ochiltree Funeral Service, Box 261, Winterset, IA 50273). Memorial: 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Ochiltree Funeral Service & Aftercare in Winterset.