At the age of 17, he married Aida Slifka. My condolences go out to the family of Jim Frey. Authorize the publication of the original written obituary with the accompanying photo. Frey's moves included signing George Bell and Danny Jackson, trading Lee Smith to Boston for Calvin Schiraldi and Al Nipper; dealing Keith Moreland to the Padres for Rich Gossage; and shipping Rafael Palmeiro and Jamie Moyer to Texas for Mitch Williams. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. James Allen Frey passed away on Friday, January 31, 2020 at the age of 87. James A. Frey of Soldotna, Alaska, died peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 2, 2018, at a friend's home in Salem, Oregon. His power stroke eventually led him to the Baseball Hall of Fame as well. Frey coached for the New York Mets in 1982 and '83, then was hired by the Cubs to replace Charlie Fox. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. In 1989, the Cubs won the NL East again before losing to the San Francisco Giants in the NLCS. Later on, Frey became Vice Chairman of the Independent Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, being a key figure in the team's early years. May you find comfort and strength in God during this time of sorrow. But Sutcliffe struggled in his Game Five loss, so its questionable that he would have been more effective with one fewer day of rest. However, even a casual observer would see the deep respect, love, and warmth in their marriage that endured all highs, lows, and in between. Surviving are his wife, Sharon; children, Alan (Jackie) Frey, Keith (Cindy) Frey, Kimberly (Tim) Pieper, Terry (Tim) Frey, Renee (Tom Jr.) Pieper; 20 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; sisters, Mary Ann Misner, Maxine Miller; brother, Robert Frey; brother-in-law, Ray (Donna) VanIddeking; many nieces and nephews. Martin and Lewis, anybody. The Cubs lost the next three games, and many critics blamed Frey for mishandling the pitching staff. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. Jim attended NAIT, where he completed his training as a Journeyman Carpenter. View all posts by Sam Gazdziak. Jim loved to read, and had a great appreciation for art of all forms, which he collected from the many places he visited. I tried to change his mental approach to hitting.. Read Full Obituary.. I knew he was in and out of bad health the last four or five years, but he always managed to come through., In a statement, the Cubs called Frey a central figure in our clubs most memorable moments of the 1980s.. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. The Chicago Cubs are saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Frey, former manager and GM.Jim was a central figure in our club's most memorable moments of the 1980s. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. Your email address will not be published. He loved to travel the world to experience other cultures, and was always considering future destinations. Westphalia Historical Soc., Inc., 166 CR 3000, Lott, Texas 76656 JIM FREY OBITUARY Frey, Jim R. Age 80 of Sand Lake died Tuesday, December 31, 2019 at his home. Great neighbor, friend and surrogate pops to our kids Alexis and Ethan. Zimmer was fired in May of 1991, and reports at the time indicated that Cubs president Don Grenesko went over Freys head and made the decision himself. Illinois is leading the way. He was predeceased by : his parents, Harold Frey and Betty Lou Frey; and his sister . My family tolerates this about me. OBITUARY James Clifford Frey May 18, 1937 - August 17, 2022 IN THE CARE OF Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home Austin lost an original on August 17, 2022 with the passing of James Clifford Frey. Frey was born in Cleveland, Ohio. This site is provided as a service of SCI Shared Resources, LLC. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. In 1984, one of the most storied seasons in team history, the Cubs won the first two games of the best-of-five NLCS at Wrigley Field but lost the next three to the Padres in San Diego. Published by Grand Rapids Press from Jan. 1 to Jan. 5, 2020. Love Brian and Bridget. He even discovered some power and hit 16 homers in 1960 with Rochester and in 1962 with Buffalo. Love sent to all! Aside from closer Lee Smith, Frey didnt inherit much. To leave a condolence message, add photos, or add videos, please provide your name and email address, 11802 99 Avenue 14, 2020. MAKE A DONATION. The Mets manager, George Bamberger, was an old friend of Freys and a fellow coach on the Orioles. Growing up in Cincinnati, he played for the American Legion Bentley post, which was the American Legion runner-up in 1946 and the national champion in 1947. MEMORIES & CONDOLENCES Expand the Memories and Condolences form. In the years following, Jim would go on to attain his BA and MBA from Baldwin Wallace University. He loved the Lord and kept his sense of humor to the end. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. A left-handed batting-and-throwing outfielder, Frey spent much of his career in the farm systems of the Boston/Milwaukee Braves and St. Louis Cardinals. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Nicole Lee heads toward runoff, No moral victory awaits Bulls if they make play-in tournament. Upon being named manager for the 1984 season, Jim took over a club that had not had a winning record since 1972 and immediately helped return the Cubs to postseason play, leading the team to the NL East title and first playoff appearance in 39 years, earning NL Manager of the Year honors along the way, the statement said. James Gottfried Frey (May 26, 1931 April 12, 2020) was an American professional baseball manager, coach, general manager, and Minor League Baseball (MiLB) outfielder. The Royals stumbled out of the gate in 1981 and got off to a 20-30 start. However, Jim was more known for being a kind soul who was forever giving to those within the communities he lived. Everyone on the team was treated the same, even a superstar like George Brett. Frey was fired the following season after the Royals got off to a 10-10 start during the second half of the strike-marred season. Jim was an avid hunter and fisherman. Former Kansas City Royals and Chicago Cubs manager Jim Frey died Sunday at age 88. Freys first major deal, which sent Lee Smith to Boston for pitchers Al Nipper and Calvin Schiraldi, was a bust, but the 1988 Cubs finished in fourth place a step up from their previous seasons. Former Cubs manager and GM Jim Frey has died at age 88. He was the second of five children, born to Ella Mae and James Will Fraser. I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Jim. The idea is to use everybodys talents in contributing to the overall team success. He was a very, very funny guy, and a lot of people didnt see that side of him., Frey was born in Cleveland and grew up in Cincinnati, where he played American Legion and high school ball with Zimmer. Get them together and, oh, man.. James was born May 18, 1937 in Austin to Henry Frey and Cleo Caswell Frey as the sixth of eight children. Please accept my condolences. Chicago lost in five games to the San Diego Padres in the NL Championship Series, blowing a 2-0 series lead. In spite of the heroics, Frey did not make the big-league club; his ESPN obituary stated that a left shoulder injury cost him a spot on the Opening Day roster, which went to Curt Flood instead. The teams management made the decision that they wouldnt improve unless things changed, and Frey was fired in favor of Dick Howser. He was predeceased by : his father Bob Frey; and his niece Cynthia Marie Frey. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 2023 SCI SHARED RESOURCES, LLC. My family and I knew Jim and family back in Strongsville Ohio. I dont think he was putting me on either, Frey later said. He enjoyed his time on his farm in the hill country with bird feeders and wildlife. My husband Ray, who sufferred many strokes, is especially moved by Jim's passing as he stated "He (Jim) always talked to me when I walked around the block and he would ask how I was feeling and encourage me. 14, 2020. Frey also took heat for a mistake he made in the 1981 All-Star Game. Feb 23, 2023. When he found out we were from Cleveland that made us instant friends. The Padres won three straight games in San Diego to head to the World Series. An outfielder, Frey spent 14 seasons in the minor league organizations of the Boston and Milwaukee Braves, and the St. Louis Cardinals without reaching the majors. He should be the guy that makes big things happen. Prepare a personalized obituary for someone you loved.. November 24, 1954 - Nominate your top brews here , Ohio Supreme Court to decide if at-home workers eligible for tax refund. They see the ball so well and their coordination is so good, they dont have to worry as much as the rest of us. If there were complaints over playing time, he handled things before they became problems. & JOEL 1:11:17 ?????????????? Jim coached me in my first year of professional ball in the Appalachian League. To the Frey family I offer my condolences. Frey said that he told Sandberg that he needed to stop being the guy who set up someone else to have a big inning. (LogOut/ Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Read Full Obituary. With the new acquisitions and good performances from the existing players, the Cubs marched to the top of the division with a 96-65 record. Despite his reputation as a good baseball coach, Frey was never the subject of managerial rumors until he was hired by the Kansas City Royals in October of 1979 to replace Whitey Herzog. Write your message of sympathy today. He retired after an injury-plagued 1963 season, when he was 32 years old. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. He was born in San Francisco, CA on October 21, 1940. He ended 1950 with a .325 batting average, his throws from right field to the infield were so strong and accurate that the team even tried him out as a reliever. Jim Frey was the former manager of the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. Funeral arrangement under the care ofKendall Funeral Services. They told me they wanted me to be their vice president of Baltimore.. The team reached the postseason for the first time since the 1945 World Series. Those who knew him best, knew Jim to be a man of strong convictions. James graduated McCallum High School in 1956 where he played football, ran in the Texas Relays, participated in choir, served as a class officer, among other activities. The Dignity Memorial brand name is used to identify a network of licensed funeral, cremation and cemetery providers that include affiliates of Service Corporation International, 1929 Allen Parkway, Houston, Texas. As our general manager, he constructed a playoff club in 1989 to again land the Cubs in the postseason five years later. Get email updates about Jim Frey delivered directly to your inbox. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. [10][11] He died in Ponte Vedra, Florida, on April 12, 2020, at the age of 88, survived by his wife of 68 years and his four children. The childhood thing is kind of a nice romantic story, Frey said, but it doesnt have a heckuva lot to do with hiring somebody to manage a ballclub. For many years he sponsored children through World Vision Canada, and spent Sunday nights before the pandemic volunteering his time with Everybody Eats Grande Prairie, to feed those who were hungry. It's because of guys like Jim that I can say I was able to retire 28yrs later as a Leader lineman!! You may make donations via etransfer to everybodyeatsingp@gmail.com, Question: Jim Fraser, Password: Everybodyeats, Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bearcreekfuneral.com, I was hoping to meet you one day properly but it looks like I get to meet you with mom and grandma and auntie in heaven miss you uncle love you lots my condolences to the family. Frey spent the 1987 season in the WGN Radio booth as an analyst on Cubs broadcasts and was the Cubs general manager from November 1987 through the 1991 season. It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Mary Elizabeth Frey, 73, of Alpena, passed away after a long courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023 surrounded by her family. He was a kind man.". The two would remain friends, and their careers would cross professionally with the Chicago Cubs some 40 years later. pic.twitter.com/gIRBAhxVd9. JIM FREY OBITUARY. James often reflected that he knew he had to marry her if he was going to get her to Austin. Injuries suffered during the course of his career sapped his arm strength and his speed, though his hitting stayed pretty consistent. Jim was born November 3, 1939 in Sand Lake, MI the son of Harry and Blanche (Verburg) Frey. Jim graduated from Riordan High School in 1958. Growing up in Cincinnati, he played for the American Legion Bentley post, which was the American Legion runner-up in 1946 and the national champion in 1947. In parts of five seasons as a manager in the majors, Frey compiled a 323-287 win-loss record for a .530 winning percentage. Every player needs to respect the other players and the idea of the entire group of 25 trying to win together, he said. As Sutcliffe shared this story Tuesday, he couldnt help but laugh. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of James A. Frey of Boscobel, Wisconsin, who passed away on October 8, 2022, at the age of 67, leaving to mourn family and friends. Frey would ask Aaron where certain pitches had been. Frey didnt spend much time talking with his players; he just expected them to do the jobs they were given. JIM FREY OBITUARY Jim Frey was the former manager of the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals. 14, 2020. . The Hawks barely avoided being shut out in a 4-1 defeat Tuesday. JIM FREY OBITUARY. Click a candle below to add a candle to your message. His shadow, and his son, James Christopher Frey (aka Small Frey or Jim Jr.). Published by The Oregonian on Apr. What do you say about a man who was frequently described as larger than life? His first real setback came after hitting .263 in 20 games for the Class-A Hartford Chiefs of the Eastern League. "We join the baseball community in mourning Jim's passing and send our condolences to his family and friends," the Cubs said in a statement Tuesday. Former Cubs manager and GM Jim Frey dies at 88, Cubs move up Wednesday game time vs. Rays due to rain in forecast, What switch hitter Ian Happs right-handed rhythm means for the Cubs, Cubs Jed Hoyer, David Ross remember Jake Arrietas legacy after he announces retirement, Cubs Keegan Thompson plays extremely valuable role in Cubs bullpen, win vs. Rays, Cubs Patrick Wisdom, Frank Schwindel face an uphill climb, Cubs Seiya Suzuki, turning heads to start MLB career, named NL Player of the Week, Lightfoot is out, Vallas and Johnson are in the April runoff, No major damage reported as tornadoes briefly touch down in Joliet, Naperville, Progressive leaders can blame themselves if Garcia or Johnson fail to make mayoral runoff, Blackhawks trade Patrick Kane to Rangers in era-ending move, Oscar predictions: Signs point to Everything turning to gold. Frey was living in Baltimore. So very sorry to hear of Jims passingI knew him well as a fellow CEI employee and admired him in his role as safety director-Havent heard from or about him for several years and saddened to hear that he also lived in the Tampa area! Our kids played many different sports throughout the years and Jim coached my son and daughter, Joe III and Missy in various sports. [12][13]. May you have peace and comfort as grieve. But seriously. At one point, it was so bad I couldnt throw 50 feet. Former Cubs skipper Jim Frey, who managed the team from 1984 to 1986 and led them to their first division title and first postseason appearance since the 1945 World Series, died Sunday at 88. I loved his managing etc. After Jims retirement he resided full time in Grande Prairie, Alberta to be near to his family. RIP. After I broke my knee, I couldnt run either.. He inquired about who we were and where we came from. In 1980, Frey led the Kansas City Royals of Major League Baseball (MLB) to their first American League (AL) championship, in his first year with the team. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. No one would ever accuse Jim of being shy about sharing what he believed to be right, just or correct. Frey died Sunday at his home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, according to the Atlantic League's Somerset Patriots, the minor league team he had been affiliated with since its launch in 1998. Green made a few shrewd deals before and during the 1984 season, like acquiring Rick Sutcliffe, Gary Matthews and Scott Sanderson. What are risks, rewards of Larry Householder taking the stand today? He seemed like a nice guy. He enjoyed great professional success, working all over Canadas North, as well as in various places throughout the world. She was a kind, caring . Jim was born on September 26, 1951 in Calgary, Alberta. Not sure what to say? He also cracked 11 home runs in 1954, which was more than hed hit in his entire professional career to that point. Frey managed the Royals in 1980 and 1981, leading them to the 1980 World Series, which they lost to the Phillies. Unlike the Royals, which was already a good team, the Cubs were much closer to the NL East cellar than the playoffs. Those lucky enough to work for James knew they were going to be held to a high standard and in return they would be kept safe and well supported. Jim Essian, a former journeyman catcher and Iowa Cubs manager, replaced Zimmer for the remainder of the season. To Carol, Jim Jr, and the whole Frey family. In lieu of flowers, donations to Everybody Eats Grande Prairie would be greatly appreciated. Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. He held the position of vice chairman in the early days of the Bridgewater, N.J.-based team. Frey, 38, would also serve as a hitting coach and occasional first base coach in a 10-year term on the Baltimore coaching staff. Two things that can never be taken in the love in your heart and the memories you have share with your Father. The Cubs returned to the National League Championship Series in 1989 with Don Zimmer, Freys lifelong friend and his Cubs bench coach, as manager. The trade appeared to pay off for the Cubs with respect to the 1989 season as Williams saved 36 games, the Cubs won a division title and Moyer and Palmeiro struggled in Texas. Closer Mitch Williams picked up 36 saves. He was hired by the Chicago Cubs for the 1984 season, and again struck paydirt as the Cubs won the division title, earning their first post-season appearance since 1945. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. Born on Oct. 20, 1961, in Fort Bragg to John Frey and Evelyn Rabourn, he was 56 years old. For full obituary and coverage from Legacy.com, click here. Jim Frey, 49, of Salem died Sunday of a heart attack. He tossed 3 scoreless innings in his professional pitching debut. Frey played for three AA teams in 1956 and a fourth AA team in 1957. Jim Frey was born in Cleveland on May 26, 1931. Together they had three children, Michelle, Neal, and Wendy. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. With no college education, Jim would begin his civilian career as linemen for the Illuminating Company in Cleveland, Ohio. After spending the first half of 54 hitting over .340, Frey earned another All-Star selection. Ex-Royals, Cubs manager Jim Frey dies at 88, 'It's about being smarter': How Carlos Correa is approaching his future after wild offseason, Tatis: Shoulder, wrist '100%' in return to play, Machado envisions 'great things' with Padres, Ohtani 'satisfied' with pitches, clock in spring start, O's, Pirates play ump-less bottom of ninth inning, Song, in Phillies camp, knows challenges ahead, Dodgers' Lux to miss 2023 season with torn ACL, Rays' Glasnow out 6-8 weeks with oblique strain, From position battles to top prospects: What to watch in this week's ESPN spring training games, The most intriguing player for 2023 on all 30 MLB teams, What you need to know about MLB's 2023 rule changes, Fantasy baseball: Impact of bigger bases on steals, Fantasy baseball rankings for 2023 points leagues, Fantasy baseball rankings, projections, strategy and cheat sheets, Pads' Musgrove drops kettlebell, fractures toe, Supplemental Privacy Policy for Singapore. The team then got past their old nemesis, the New York Yankees, with a 3-game sweep. James is survived by his wife Zella, children James Frey Jr and wife Donna Karen, Will Frey, Clint Frey and Courtney Kieke and husband David, grandchildren Hannah, Jack, Madelyn, Cody, Gibson, Kiptyn, Peter, Bobby, and Grant, and great grandson Aiden. Ryne Sandberg cited Frey as "the one guy who was extremely instrumental in my career. Receive a notification when services are updated. I will.miss him so . But Williams had just one more forgettable year for the Cubs before being traded to Philadelphia in 1991, and Palmeiro and Moyer went on to have productive careers. James William Frey, 73 of Novato, passed away at home surrounded by his family on May 5, 2014. Read Full Obituary. Born September 6, 1934 in Berkeley Heights, NJ, Jim attended Bernardsville High School, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Ellen Burke. [4] He led the Royals to a 9765 mark and the American League West Division title in 1980; then, in the 1980 American League Championship Series, the Royals swept their long-time postseason nemesis, the New York Yankees, in three straight games to capture the AL title. Phone: (780) 830-7742. James embraced Zellas deep roots on the gulf coast and started a seasonal shrimping operation that allowed the family to spend quality time together on Copano Bay and surrounding area. That deal looks bad now, because it sent Rafael Palmiero and Jamie Moyer to the Rangers. The best thing about him is that hes such a good kid, Frey said of his slugger. Add a Message. His childhood was spent exploring beautiful Shoal Creek and playing in Ramsey Park. Which area high school boys basketball teams will win district titles? However, the Royals dropped the World Series to the Philadelphia Phillies in six games. He was one guy who was extremely instrumental in my career and in the Chicago Cubs, Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg said. Zimmer, his old friend and third base coach, was let go as well. DIED April 12, 2020 Obituary Jim Frey was the former manager of the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals. "Former Royals manager Jim Frey dies at the age of 88", "Nocatee snowbird Jim Frey made mark in baseball", "Jim Frey Signs Year Contract To Manage Royals", "Former manager Jim Frey, who led Royals to first World Series, dies at age 88", https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article241997606.html, "Royals Fire Frey, Hire Howser to Manage Club", https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/local/2013/03/31/nocatee-snowbird-jim-frey-made-mark-baseball/15833415007/, "Cubs' Frey, Orioles' Hemond UPI's co-Executives of the Year", "Former KC, Cubs manager Jim Frey dies at 88", "Jim Frey, Former Cubs Manager, Dies At 88", https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29035030/former-royals-cubs-manager-jim-frey-dies-age-88%3fplatform=amp, National League Manager of the Year Award, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jim_Frey&oldid=1141837225, American expatriate baseball players in Venezuela, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Career statistics and player information from, This page was last edited on 27 February 2023, at 02:00.