Fred Pries

Fred A. Pries, 70, of Winchester, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Sept. 4, 2023.

He was born on June 15, 1953, in Wabash, Indiana, to Richard C. Pries and Carlene (Elser-Landis) Bland.

Fred always greeted others with a smile and firm handshake. He was an honest man of faith and full of integrity. He had a gift for attention to detail and exquisite penmanship. He was described as a gentleman with class, loved by many.

Fred was a 1971 graduate of Southwood High School and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and insurance from Ball State University in 1975. He owned and operated his own insurance business (Fred Pries and Leslie Jones Insurance and Financial Services) for over 40 years. 

He was an active member of the East Street Church, serving on both deacon and elder boards, as well as treasurer for 25 years. He was a member of the Winchester Kiwanis Club, Randolph Historical Society, NRA, NAIFA and NAHU. Fred was elected and served on the Randolph Central School Board for over 20 years. Fred had been named Citizen of the Year in a community he was proud to call home.

He spent hours caring for his yard and detailing his cars. He enjoyed learning about history and keeping up with news and politics. Most of all, his greatest joy was found spending time with his friends, family and grandchildren.

Fred is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cindy Pries; two children, Brandon Pries of Indianapolis and Leslie Jones (Justin) of Winchester; three grandchildren, Rowan, Luke and Laney Jones; mother Carlene Bland of Wabash; brother Mike Pries of Berne; sister-in-law Sandy Pries of Lagro; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Richard Pries; two brothers, Ron Pries and David Pries; and grandparents, Clarence and Irene Pries.

Friends and family may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday at East Street Church. 

A service to celebrate Fred’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at the East Street Church with Pastor Rob Butler officiating. Burial will follow at Fountain Park Cemetery in Winchester.

Memorials may be made in Fred’s memory to the East Street Church, 128 N. East St. Winchester, IN 47394. 

Walker Funeral Home in Winchester is entrusted with the arrangements.

Condolences may be shared with the family at walkerswinchester.com.