John George Fries, Jr.

John George Fries Jr. was born Aug. 30, 1926, in Joliet, Ill., one of three children born to John Sr. and Helen (Kilkevich) Fries.

John passed away suddenly at his home in Hartford on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, at the age of 92.

On December 1, 1951, John was united in marriage with the former Barbara Austin. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. After serving in the navy, he was a self-employed carpenter working alongside his father and finally retired from the Van Buren County Road Commission. In his spare time, John was an avid fisherman.

As to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to be made to the USS Indianapolis Survivors Organization. Memorial condolences for the family can be left on our website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

John is survived by his three children, Jeanne (Michael) Leighton, James "Jim" (Jane) Fries and Jeff Fries; five grandchildren, Anthony Leighton, Brian Leighton, Evan Fries, John Newcomb and Brad Newcomb; and three great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in passing by his wife, Barbara; a son, John Fries; his parents; and two brothers, William Fries and Allen Fries.