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Scott Pyatte
I am truly sorry for the loss of Heinz Fridrich. He was a great mentor to me in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. Heinz was a great person and a true friend. He will be truly missed by many people as he has touched so many lives and hearts. Heinz I know you will continue to watch down on us all and guide us through our lives just as you have done for the time we have been friends. Rest peacefully my friend you will forever be in my heart and mind.
Pete Pelar
Pam: Sue and I send our deepest sympathy to you and the family. I was privileged to have met Heinz and have him as a mentor over the past few years. I really appreciated him taking the time to share his knowledge and experience with all of us. Heinz was a great man and will definitely be missed by all of us.
Heinz Fridrich
2025-05-20
Heinz K. Fridrich, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and esteemed professional, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on February 24, 1933, in Stuttgart, Germany, Heinz's journey through life was marked by remarkable achievements and a deep commitment to his family and community. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela, and their three children: Peter (spouse Gloria), Dennis (spouse Diana), and Cathy (spouse Matthew). Heinz was also a proud grandfather to Eric, Matthew, Megan, Thomas and Ryan, and he leaves behind family in Germany who will cherish his memory.
Heinz's professional career was distinguished and impactful. He dedicated 43 years to IBM, where he rose to the position of corporate vice president of manufacturing before retiring in 1993. His expertise in industrial management was honed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he graduated with a master's degree in 1965. Heinz's leadership and vision contributed significantly to the success of IBM during a transformative era in technology.
In addition to his corporate accomplishments, Heinz served his country with honor in the Auxiliary Coast Guard Auxiliary, beginning in September 2000. His commitment to service was recognized when he achieved AUXOP status in 2004, and he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation and the Coast Guard Humanitarian Award for his dedication and contributions.
Heinz was also passionate about education and giving back to the community. In 1995, he founded the Integrated Product & Process Design engineering program at the University of Florida, which has since inspired countless students. His contributions to the field of engineering were acknowledged when he received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the University Of Florida College Of Engineering in 2003.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no memorial service. Instead, the family encourages all who knew Heinz to remember him through acts of kindness and service to others, reflecting the values he lived by. Heinz K. Fridrich will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, leadership, and service will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
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