Nancy Rose Fries, 91, of Marion, passed away at 9:18 am on Monday, August 28, 2023, in her home. She was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on Monday, June 27, 1932, to Leo and Lois (Swihart) Christle. On December 27, 1954, she married George William Fries, and he preceded her in death on July 11, 2022.
Nancy graduated from Elmhurst High School in Fort Wayne and received her RN degree from St. Joseph Nursing School in Fort Wayne. She was a nurse throughout her lifetime, starting as a surgical nurse, then as a visiting nurse. She finished her career as head nurse of the inpatient unit of Grant-Blackford Mental Health in Marion, where she served for 20 years.
Nancy was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Wabash Dental Alliance, Catholic Nurses Association, and Indiana & American Nurses Association, as well as a Catechist and Lay Minister at the church. She enjoyed reading, solving crossword puzzles, and gardening. Nancy was an excellent cook and made many meals for her family over the years, especially large Thanksgiving dinners.
Survivors include her daughters, Joan M. (David) McGinnis of Fairfield, IA, and Julia R. (Randy) Rusk of Fort Wayne; granddaughters, Olivia M. Rusk of Fort Wayne and Annah R. Rusk of Fort Wayne; great-granddaughter, Salem; several nieces, nephews, and friends; and her cat, Jasmine.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; sons, Michael J. Fries and George Harvey Fries; daughters, Jane E. Fries and Anne F. Fries; brothers, David Christle, Edward Christle, and James Christle; and sister, Margaret Gordon.
The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, September 1, 2023, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1031 W. Kem Rd., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a memorial mass to celebrate Nancy’s life will begin at 11:00 am with Father Ted Rothrock officiating. Inurnment of both George and Nancy will follow at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Paul Catholic Church, 1031 W. Kem Rd., Marion, IN 46952; Community Foundation of Grant County, 505 W. Third St., Marion, IN 46952; or Heart to Heart Hospice, 1385 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46952.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46952.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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