Howard Lee Frey, 61, DuBois, Nebraska passed away on July 3, 2024, at Bryan West Hospital in Lincoln, succumbing to a serious head trauma injury that occurred on his farm south of Humboldt. He was born in Sabetha, KS, November 25, 1962, the eldest son to Fred and Alda (Tanking) Frey also of DuBois, NE.
He spent his childhood on a farm near the Kansas/Nebraska line north of Bern, Kansas and southeast of DuBois. When passing his father Fred Frey’s farm truck, Howard was always right there by his side, riding shotgun during his youth. Howard graduated from Bern High School in 1981 always remembered for his gifts in all sports. He used his talent and played basketball and football at Highland Community College from 1981-1983. Howard majored in Animal Science at Kansas State University earning his Bachelor’s Degree in 1986. Upon graduating, Howard’s work experience led him to jobs at Mid America Dairy in Sabetha, Kansas from 1988-1996, CJ Foods, Pawnee City, Nebraska from 1996-2000, and IMAC, Sabetha, Kansas from 2000-2010. Howard took an opportunity to stake his own claim into the family farming business. In 2003, he purchased his home and 105 acres of farm ground, originally belonging to his grandparents Jake and Laura Frey, (and later uncle John and Ann Frey). Howard spent his remaining years on the generational farmland. Howard enjoyed farming and was an extremely hard worker. His dedication was all the more recognized after the sudden death of his father, Fred Frey in November, 2014. In cooperation and teamwork with his new farming partner, brother Roy Frey, they shouldered all the ups and downs of running both farms three miles apart.
Unfortunately, on June 24, 2024, family, friends, neighbors, and community were reminded more than ever of the unexpected dangers involved with any farming operation. God bless all our farmers of this nation; we salute what you do.
Howard was an avid reader, collector of vintage items, and outdoorsman. He was a devoted uncle who enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews.
Howard is survived by his beloved dog, Lucy; his sister, Cindy (Russ) Wilfert of Mesa, AZ; his brother, Roy (Shari) Frey of Sabetha, KS; and his 5 nieces and nephews,
Jacqueline (Josh) Myers of Overland Park, KS; Jacob (Alyssa) Frey of Overland Park, KS; Brock (Haley) Frey of Manhattan, KS; Jenna (Quaid) Vuncannan of Gilbert, AZ; and Cade Wilfert of Goodyear AZ; also, many aunts and uncles, cousins, and treasured dear friends who were “family” to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Alda Frey
Howard had a quiet spirit but strong belief in his Lord and Savior. Family and friends are invited to a graveside service where his remains will be laid to rest at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Four Mile Cemetery along Highway 8, south of Humboldt, Nebraska. Following that, the family will greet friends, relatives, and acquaintances of Howard at the DuBois Community Center from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, NE.
Memorial Contributions can be made to the Humboldt Rescue Foundation-Volunteer EMT department in care of Wherry Mortuary, 207 Nemaha St., Humbolt, NE 68376
Online messages of condolence can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com
