Edward Frydendahl, Jr.

Edward William Frydendahl Jr. (“Ed Fry”)

Edward William Frydendahl Jr., lovingly known as “Ed Fry,” passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at Genesis Southern Ocean Center in Manahawkin, New Jersey. He was 84 years old.

Ed was born on October 24, 1941, at Jamaica Queens Hospital in New York. In 1971, he made Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey his home, later moving to Renaissance in Manchester, New Jersey in 2002.

Ed had the true gift of gab and a natural talent for sales — he could sell just about anything. He worked for many years as a car salesman at Downs Ford in Toms River, New Jersey, where his charm and personality made him unforgettable. He later worked for the Ocean County Board of Elections in Toms River. Even in retirement, Ed stayed active, taking a part-time position as a beverage salesman for Canada Dry Beverage in Wall Township, New Jersey.

He was a member of the Forked River Methodist Church, the Kiwanis Club, and the Democratic Club. Ed loved connecting with people and was known for his outgoing nature and sense of humor.

He enjoyed watching NASCAR races, fishing, horse racing, listening to country music, and traveling to beach destinations. He loved going out to eat and especially enjoyed cooking big breakfasts of eggs, grits, bacon, sausage, and biscuits. And those who knew him best will always remember his cherished cocktail time — Southern Comfort over ice with a splash of water.

Above all else, Ed’s greatest joy was his family. He was married to the love of his life, Patricia Frydendahl, for 51 wonderful years before her passing in 2015 at the age of 73.

He is survived by his two daughters, Nancy Frydendahl Morris and Sue Frydendahl Zarichak. Nancy’s beloved husband, Bob Morris, passed away in 2024. Sue and her husband, Daryl Zarichak, continue to share a loving marriage.

Ed was the proud grandfather of Jared Morris, Matthew Morris, Brianna Zarichak, and Amber Zarichak. His grandchildren were his life. He treasured spending time with them — babysitting, taking them out to eat, treating them to special outings, and creating unforgettable memories, including trips to Disney. Nothing brought him more happiness than being “Grandpa.”

Everyone who knew Ed Fry loved him. He made people laugh, filled every room with conversation, and lived his life with warmth, humor, and heart. His family was his everything.

Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing at Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals O’Connell Chapel, 706 Hwy 9, Bayville, NJ on Sunday, February 22nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com. 

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Frydendahl, Jr., please visit our floral store.