Steven "Steve" Fryer

Steven “Steve” B. Fryer, 66, of Traverse City, passed away April 3, 2023. An honorably discharged Navy Veteran, Steve came into this world on February 21, 1957 to the late Wallace and Betty (Beck) Fryer in Detroit. He was one of four children, and self-proclaimed as the favorite although the other siblings may disagree. After moving from Detroit, MI prior to the riots in 1967, Steve completed his primary education and graduated from Glen Lake Highschool. Where he may have lacked a bit in academics, he made up for tenfold on the baseball diamond positioning himself as not only one of the most favored past time catchers but also earned an opportunity to try out for the MLB. Unfortunately, due to an injury his baseball career came to an end. After high school, he enrolled in Ferris State University and received an associate’s degree in accounting. Wanting to further his experiences, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, following in the steps of his father whom also served the Country in the Army. During his career in the Navy, he attended Nuclear School, was enlisted during the Desert Storm and Persian Gulf (Iranian Hostage Crisis) conflicts. He also sailed on the USS La Salle in the Persian Gulf which has been decommissioned since May of 2005. Steve was proud of his strong German and Native American roots, but he was even more proud of his family. He was a former parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elk Rapids and an instrumental role in the development of the youth baseball programs in Elk Rapids. He will fondly be remembered as an active participant in coaching youth baseball, a man with a charming sense of humor and a man with a willingness to help anyone at any time. He is leaving behind to carry on his legacy; daughters Beverley (Edward Byrne) Fryer and Andrea Fryer, sons: Eric Fryer, Evan Fryer, Ryan Fryer, the mother of his children and cherished special friend Colleen Veliquette-Fryer, granddaughter Lilith, brothers Ernie (Beth) Fryer, Chip (Melissa) Fryer, sister Kate Fryer and many treasured nieces and nephews. He is joining his parents in his eternal slumber. A time to gather and honor the life of Steve will take place on Monday April 10, 2023 at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Events will begin with a rosary recitation at 1:45pm followed by visitation for family and friends from 2-3pm. A funeral service will begin at 3pm followed immediately by proper military honors. Those wishing an expression of sympathy may choose to contribute to Make a Wish Foundation: wish list of something sports oriented or Sacred Heart Catholic Church Building Fund in Steve’s name.

Steven "Steve" Fryer

February 21, 1957 - April 3, 2023