Obituary of Kenneth Dale Frey
Kenneth Dale Frey was born on August 7, 1936 in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of three sons born to Boniface and Genevieve (Compeau) Frey. Kenny grew up in Newport, Michigan where his family had such deep roots, a road was named after them: “Frey’s Corner”. He spent his primary school years at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Academy in Newport and graduated from Monroe High School with the Class of 1955. Kenny later attended trade school where he became a skilled carpenter. Kenny provided for his family with employment through the Carpenter’s Union for many years.
In the mid 1980’s, Kenny met and married the love of his life, the former Bonnie Myrick. The couple enjoyed thirty-five years of marriage and spent much of their time involved in activities at Lulu United Methodist Church in Ida, Michigan. Kenny assisted his wife in establishing the charitable organization, “God Works”. The soup kitchen has since provided thousands of meals to families in need. Kenny personally took on the responsibility of collecting the daily donation of bread from Panera Bread restaurant.
An avid collector of all things, Kenny had a special interest in coins and toy trains. He had a great appreciation for God’s gifts found in nature, both flora and fauna. Kenny was prolific at planting trees and had a fondness for Evergreens. His “green thumb” also made for a bountiful vegetable garden every season. Kenny enjoyed nothing more than the simple pleasure of relaxing at home with a giant pot of his famous sixteen bean soup simmering on the stove.
Kenneth Dale Frey, age 86, of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully at ProMedica Toledo Hospital on Thursday; March 23, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; his beloved wife: Bonnie Frey in 2018; a loving daughter: Violet Ann Frey; a brother: James Frey; and a sister-in-law: Sharon Frey
To cherish his memory, he leaves his two daughters: Robin (Jeffrey) Mandell of Winter Park, Florida and Cindy Frey of Austin, Texas; a stepson: Byron Staes of San Antonio, Texas; a brother: Edward Frey; a special cousin: Arlene Gedelian; and several close friends including Tammy Mink.
Friends may gather on Monday; March 27, 2023 from 9:30am until 11:30am at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Kenny’s Life with Pastor William Lass officiating will begin at 11:30am also at Merkle’s. Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.
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