Donald Lee Fry

Donald Lee Fry, beloved son, brother, father, and friend, departed this world on February 19, 2025, at the age of 55, in Erie, Pennsylvania, after a courageous battle with stage four glioblastoma multiforme brain cancer. Born on October 15, 1969, in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, Don, as he was affectionately called, embraced life with a vibrance that resonated through the many roads he traveled and the hands he shook.

Don devoted much of his life to driving big rigs, where he found genuine happiness beneath the vast skies, navigating the open roads with a sense of freedom and purpose. He also honed his skills as a welder while working on pipelines, and dabbled in various roles, including contracting, powder metal production, and hauling. Each endeavor reflected both his industrious spirit and his desire for a life spent actively contributing to the world around him.

Beyond his career, Don cherished the little moments that defined family life. Memories of him abound, painted with the brush of love and protection, particularly toward his siblings. Known for his ability to bring joy, he took great delight in cooking succulent steaks over an open fire—a culinary talent that will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who gathered around him.

Education played a formative role in Don's life, as he attended Ridgway area school and pursued vocational training at welding school and CDL school, preparing him for a career filled with challenges and accomplishments. His heart was woven with complex threads; while some knew him as a protector and a source of love, others encountered a different side—an honest, sometimes blunt, reflection of the human condition. Such complexity made him the man he was—outgoing, with an insatiable love for the outdoors; fishing, hunting, camping, and tinkering with cars were but a few of his passions.

Literature piqued his curiosity, and he immersed himself in the pages of books while indulging in the pleasures of coin collection, car shows, and Charity rides, revealing a passion for craftsmanship and generosity.

In reflecting upon his life, one cannot overlook the pride he held for his children—Shane Fry of Wilcox, Pennsylvania, Dillion (Lizzie) Fry of Emporium, Pennsylvania, and Nichole (Justin) Peacock of Texas. He relished every accomplishment they achieved and spoke of them with deep affection and respect. Additionally, he leaves behind four cherished grandchildren, nurturing a legacy that will continue to thrive through the generations, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, a mother, Doris Johnson Gelsick of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, a brother, Kevin (Char) Fry of Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, and sisters, Melinda (Bill) Umstead of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, and sister Maria (Terry) Cherry Rinehart of Grampian, Pennsylvania.

Don is now reunited in peace with those who have left before him, including his grandparents from both sides, a daughter, and other family members, such as his father and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He departed this life surrounded by the love of those who mattered most, leaving a palpable absence that will echo in the lives of all who loved him.

As we remember Donald Lee Fry, let us celebrate a life truly lived—a tapestry woven with laughter, love, and heartfelt memories. His spirit endures in the laughter of children, the warmth of family gatherings, and the open road that welcomed him home.

There is no service or visitation per request of Don wishes. Family will hold a celebration of life for Don at a later date.