It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the unexpected passing of Stephen Wayne Fry, known affectionately as Steve, on January 17, 2024, at the age of 65.

Born on April 25, 1958, in Ballard, Washington, Steve was a man of many passions and talents. He graduated from Woodway High School in 1976 and journeyed to Manson, where he worked in orchards. It was there that he met the love of his life, Christie. Their love story blossomed into a lifelong partnership, marked by shared dreams and unwavering support for each other.

Steve’s professional life was a testament to his dedication and hard work. Following in his father’s footsteps, Steve worked tirelessly to become a journeyman electrician, working on construction sites throughout western Washington. In 1995, Steve and Christie moved to the Tri-Cities, where he spent his next career at Washington State University on the Tri-Cities campus, playing a pivotal role in their Information Technology department. His innovative thinking and problem-solving skills were not just admired but often left people in awe. He could fix anything.

Earlier in life, Steve’s adventurous spirit led him to race cars on a figure 8 track, a passion that showcased his love for speed and excitement. After retiring last year, he fully embraced the joys of travel, camping, and spending time working on their family property in Benton City.

Above all, Steve was a family man. His love for his wife, children, and grandchildren was the essence of who he was. Steve was an extraordinary father, a role he cherished above all else. He lived by the principle that his children always came first, a commitment he made clear from the very beginning of his career. During his job interview at Washington State University, he set the tone by telling the hiring manager that if his kids ever needed him, he would drop everything to be there for them. True to his word, Steve never missed a ball game, a cheer competition, or any significant moment in his children’s lives. His unwavering presence and support shaped their lives profoundly, instilling in them values of love, commitment, and family. Steve’s legacy as a loving and devoted father will continue to inspire and guide his children and grandchildren.

Steve’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His
legacy of kindness, dedication, and creativity will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Steve leaves behind his spouse of 44 years, Christie; sons Justin Fry (spouse Britney), Andrew Fry and daughter Jenna Fry; and grandchildren Henry and Murphy Fry; Brothers David Fry and Michael Fry and their spouses Keiko and Julie and nieces Katrien and Madelynn; Brother in law Rick Lindert and niece Sybylla; Brother in law Stanley, spouse Marcella, and children Jake and Rosellyn; and nieces and nephew Dianna, Katie, and Bill. Steve was preceded by his parents Bernie and Dorothy Fry, grandparents Wayne and Claire Lulow, and brother in law Charles Lindert.

A memorial service to celebrate Steve’s life will be held on February 3rd in the Tri-Cities. We invite all those whose lives were touched by Steve to join us in commemorating his remarkable life. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity close to Steve’s heart, Tri-Cities Union Mission or the Tunnel to Towers foundation. This gesture will ensure that his spirit of giving and love continues to make a difference in the world.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and very dear.” – Alex Maclean