Frederick Theodore Friess, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the Good Samaritan Society in Hays, Kansas. He was born on December 4, 1937, in Ransom, Kansas, to Mathias and Mayme (Roths) Friess.

A dedicated baker by trade, Fred spent much of his life serving others through food. He worked in food services for both Topeka and Hays public schools and lent his talents to various establishments including the House of Pies in Topeka, Elmore's Cafeteria and Dairy Bar in Salina, and JM Bowerfield grocery store. His warm heart and skilled hands nourished countless lives over the years.

Fred is survived by his children: Christopher Friess and Cynthia Friess, both of Salina, Kansas, and Geralyn Sulsar and her husband, Doug, of Hunter, Kansas. He is also survived by his brothers, Harold Friess of Topeka and Maurice Friess and wife, Debbie, of Ransom; and his sisters, Mary Frances Flax and Rosella McLain, both of Ransom.

His legacy lives on through his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jared (Tracy) Sulsar and their children, Aiden, Mason, and Kimber; Joel (Elise) Sulsar and their children, Cole, Thea, and Silas; Summer Lambert and her son, Maxton; and Rachel Friess. He is also remembered by step-grandchildren Kyle and Quincey Pickering.

Fred is lovingly remembered by his stepson, Dan and Mindy Pickering of Hays, as well as by Gene and Theresa Flax of Hays, whose help and companionship meant so much to him in his later years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and fourteen siblings: Laurene, Marjorie, Cletus, Elmer, Lewis, Eugene, Sister Janice, Donald, Anna Mae, Warren, Bernard, Janice, Daniel, and Catherine.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Ransom, with burial to follow in the St. Aloysius Cemetery. A rosary and parish vigil will be held at the church the evening before, Monday, May 26, at 6:30 p.m. Viewing will take place at Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City on Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Aloysius Cemetery in Ransom or the Good Samaritan Society of Hays.

Messages of condolence and support for the family can be shared by signing the guest book.

Fred's life was one of quiet dedication, generosity, and love—a legacy that continues in the hearts of those he touched.