Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
John.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for John D. Frey
John D. Frey, of Oakland, IL, passed away at home on Friday, June 22, 2018. He was 75 years old. The son of Thomas and Dorothy (Harter) Frey, he was raised on a farm near Carthage, IL, with brothers Tom and Jim. He attended a one-room country schoolhouse for 1st through 8th grade and graduated from Carthage High School. He was a graduate of Western Illinois University and advanced banking schools at Southern Illinois University and the University of Wisconsin. He served in the US Army on active duty in Germany from 1967-1969. He stayed in the Army Reserves before retiring at the rank of Captain. Before embarking on a career in banking, he worked as a soybean buyer for Swift and Company in Champaign, IL. Banking took him to Watseka, Lena, Oakland, Champaign, and Paris, where he specialized in commercial and agricultural lending. John, known by many as “Papa Frey” was grandfather to three grandchildren—Sam, Phoebe, and Marian, as well as a host or “2nd Father” to many other young people who enjoyed hanging out at his home over the years. He was the World’s Best Dad to Sarah and Pete. He was married for nearly 52 years to Roxanne (Whitson) Frey. At the time of his death he was still an active member of the Oakland Lions Club and the Brocton American Legion. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 26, 2018 from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. A private memorial service will be held for the family. Memorials may be made to the Oakland-Hindsboro Charitable Foundation.
