Michael "Mike" A. Fries

Michael A. Fries passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 31, 2024, just three weeks shy of his 67th birthday. Mike is survived by his mother, Sylvia Fries, beloved son, Eric Childers, daughter-in-law, Brittany (Keebaugh) Childers, grandsons, Hudson Michael Childers and Watson James Childers and dear friend and parenting partner, Lani Childers. Also survived by five siblings Vickie (Dan) Bransom, Matt (Priyanan) Fries, Mark (Yvonne) Fries, Julie (Todd) Mayer and Cindy O'Connor, ten nieces and nephews, Christie (Jacob) Stork, Lisa (Brian) Rivers, Michael (Cinthia) Bransom, Jacque Mayer (Edmund Grant), Teddy Mayer, John (Kaitie) Mayer, Jacob Fries, Jennifer Fries, Sylvie O'Connor and Mary O'Connor, and three great nieces and nephews, Jackson Stork, Tori Stork and Daniel Rivers.

Mike is preceded in death by his father, Anthony (Fritz) Fries, beloved aunt, Joan Fries Andrews, dear brother-in-law, Stephen O'Connor, and many more loved ones.

Mike, otherwise known as "Favorite", had a huge personality and even bigger heart. He was blessed with an exceptionally quick wit. Mike was self-educated as a voracious reader blazing through multiple books in a week. Mike was a non-believer in social correctness. He had a fondness for several words better off not spoken. He could mix with any group of people and had a knack for "reading the room". He was a keen listener and trusted confidant.

As the first of six children, he charted the path as strong, independent, confident and hilarious. He was wise, witty, athletic, handsome and charming. His siblings had a firm understanding of his position of big brother....large and in charge! They have countless stories of his humor and over-the-top generosity.

Mike spoke repeatedly of his son, Eric, being the best thing that ever happened to him. Eric, Brittany, Hudson and Watson were the greatest joys of his life. He had deep love, respect and gratitude for Eric's mother, Lani. Together, they raised a truly exceptional and beloved son.

Mike relocated to Michigan 45 years ago. He had a long, successful industrial sales career in the automotive industry - a perfect fit for a man who loved anything on wheels and making people smile. He had a great work ethic and established himself as a reliable resource, trusted friend, man of integrity and guaranteed good time. He spent the last 39 years with International Filter Services, a company of exceptional people who treated him with utmost respect, appreciation and generosity - especially during his two-plus years of fighting his disease. He would often be overcome with tears of gratitude when speaking of how wonderful they were to him.

Mike also leaves behind many, many great friends who he considered family. He loved hosting "garage" parties where he would provide a bountiful feast and plethora of beverages for all who cared to partake. He loved good food, especially Skyline Chili, Middle Eastern fare, Graeter's ice cream and Esther Price. He never went anywhere empty-handed.

We're not sure if the nickname "Favorite" was self-proclaimed or not, but it was definitely true. His passing has created a crater-like void in our lives, but we are forever grateful for our giant brother, father, grandfather, uncle, son and friend.

Visitation and Mass of Christian burial will be held on November 30, 2024 at Immaculate Heart of Mary church, 7770 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45255 with visitation beginning at 9:30 AM followed by Mass at 10:30 AM. A reception for friends and family will follow Mass in Heritage Hall on the IHM Campus.

An additional Celebration of Life to honor Mike will be held in early 2025 in Berkley, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cincinnati Cancer Advisors, Tunnels to Towers or Berkley American Legion Post 374, 2079 W 12 Mile Road, Berkley, MI, 48072.