Emil Charles Frein, 81, of Fort Collins, Colorado departed this life for his heavenly home on September 25, 2022. He was born in Sandwich, Illinois to Elmer and Charlotte Frein on February 10, 1941.
His childhood was spent in Somonauk, Illinois, and Ozark, Missouri. He attended school and graduated from Somonauk High School. He went on to the University of Illinois, graduating with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1964. He then joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country for 23 years including a tour during the Vietnam War. Over the course of his military career, he continued his education at the University of New Hampshire and Colorado State University, earning his Master’s degree and working toward his Doctorate. After retiring from the military, the family returned to Fort Collins, Colorado to be near his beloved mountains where he and his family could enjoy their passions of fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors. During this time, he worked at several different local businesses including Garts Sporting Goods, Wedding and Associates, and a storage facility.
Emil is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Betty; 3 children, Brian (Betty) Frein of FL, Keith (Jen) Frein of CO, and Eileen (Eric) Clark of CO; 4 grandchildren, Ashley (Jon) Russell of FL, Zackary (Laura) Frein of FL, Evan Clark of CO and Eron Clark of CO; 1 great-grandchild, Mason of FL; and 2 sisters, Mary Anne (Don) Ehmke of IL, Cathy (Ron) Muffler of IL.