James Frei, known as Jim, entered into rest Tuesday morning, December 1, 2015. He was 59.
James Richard Frei, of Thatcher, Arizona, was born on February 27, 1956, in Burlington, Wisconsin. He spent his childhood sledding, skating, skiing, swimming and working for the local Ace Hardware as a teen. Jim grew up as a member of the Berean Grace Bible Church in Genoa City, Wisconsin. He had many wonderful friends, most of whom he kept in touch with over the years.
Jim moved to Arizona in his early twenties, where he pursued a career as a drafter, both in mechanical drafting and civil engineering drafting, a profession he loved for 35 years. He was very musically talented, playing guitar, banjo and bass guitar. He played in various local bands in Mesa, Arizona, including “The Relics.”
Jim married Agnes Mary Pullar Braid, of Alloa, Scotland, in 1992. Sadly, Agnes passed away shortly after their first anniversary. He then met Irene Phelps, of Mesa, Arizona, and Irene became the love of his life. Irene also passed away from Parkinson’s a few years ago. Most recently, Jim worked for AAA Medical Transport out of Safford. Many of the clients he drove to their medical appointments loved his caring nature and good disposition.
Jim was preceded in death by: his father, Daniel Dewey Frei, who passed away in 2012. He is survived by: his sister, Deanna (Daniel) Cluff of Central, Arizona; his mother, Patricia Frei; brother, Daniel Frei; and sister, Cindy Frei, all of Las Vegas, NV; and step mother, Pamela Frei, of Ft. Bragg, California.
Jim had a heart of gold, willing to do anything for anyone, yet never wanting to be a burden or bother to those around him. He will be greatly missed by his friends and family. A small memorial service is planned for Saturday, December 12, 2015, at 11:00 a.m., at the Central LDS Chapel Relief Society Room. Internment will follow at the Central Cemetery.
Online condolences may be offered at viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
