John Frueh Sr. Obituary, Death; Kent County Sheriff IDs 91-year-old man killed in Alpine Township fire.
John Frueh Sr. Obituary, Death – The Kent County Sheriff’s Office has released the identity of the man who tragically lost his life in an early-morning house fire in Alpine Township. Authorities confirmed that the victim was 91-year-old John Frueh Sr., the homeowner and sole occupant of the residence.
The fire was first spotted around 1 a.m. on Sept. 9, when a passerby noticed flames consuming the house on 4 Mile Road. Emergency responders from both the sheriff’s office and fire departments arrived quickly at the scene. However, by the time crews reached the property, the blaze had already spread extensively. The flames were so intense that firefighters were unable to safely conduct a search of the home while the fire was active.
Sadly, Frueh was later confirmed to have died inside the house. Officials believe his death was directly related to the fire, as a preliminary autopsy showed no suspicious signs of foul play. Investigators said they are continuing to examine the cause and origin of the fire. The investigation is being led by the Plainfield Township Fire Investigator with support from the Michigan State Police.
Fire officials shared their early findings, suggesting that the fire appears to have started in the garage before rapidly spreading to the rest of the home. This quick progression likely made it impossible for Frueh to escape.
In a public statement, the Kent County Sheriff’s Office expressed their sympathy, saying, “We extend our condolences to the family and friends grieving this loss.”
Neighbors and close friends of Frueh are now mourning the loss of someone they describe as kindhearted, generous, and deeply rooted in the community. Marvin Andree, a longtime friend and neighbor, shared his heartbreak. He recalled Frueh as a gentle, friendly man who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
“He was just a little old man, yeah, but he was friendly, very friendly,” Andree said, reflecting on their years of friendship. He added that Frueh had been part of their church community, attending services at Berlin Baptist Church, and that his presence would be missed by many.
Andree recounted fond memories of Frueh’s helpful nature, including times when he came over to assist with tasks such as removing bees from his yard. He also noted that he and his wife had seen Frueh at church just this past Sunday, making the news of his death even more difficult to process.
Friends say Frueh endured a deep personal loss three years ago when his wife passed away. Since then, his church family had become an important source of comfort and support. In the wake of his passing, the congregation is preparing to honor his memory and ensure he is remembered for his faith, kindness, and community spirit.
The fire that claimed Frueh’s life remains under investigation, and officials are working to determine what sparked the devastating blaze. For those who knew him, however, his memory will be defined not by the tragedy, but by the warmth and generosity he showed throughout his life.
