Fred J. Griffis, 92, a resident of Bristol for many years, died at Chase Point in Damariscotta Feb. 18 after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his family and dear friends.
Mr. Griffis was born June 22, 1915, in Sidney, Ohio. He was the son of Fred L. Griffis and Katherine Pruden Griffis.
Fred and his childhood sweetheart, Thelma Abe Griffis, also of Sidney, Ohio, were married over 60 years.
Mr. Griffis was a graduate of De Pauw University. He spent his entire career with the Monarch Machine Tool Company of Sidney, Ohio, starting by sweeping the floors in the Depression and ending as the Eastern Regional Sales Manager.
Mr. and Mrs. Griffis lived in Glen Ridge, N.J. Starting in the early 1940s, they spent their vacations in Maine. In 1962, they purchased a home in South Bristol, where they spent increasing amounts of time. They became permanent residents of Maine in 1991.
Known for his caring nature and quick-witted style, Fred was much beloved by his family and his many friends. He served on the school board in New Jersey, was a starring member of the Community Players there and later served as a fundraiser for the Rutherford Library in South Bristol. He was a Mason and a member of the Temperance Lodge of Sidney, Ohio for over 70 years.
Mr. Griffis was predeceased by his wife, and sister, JoAnn Thoma.
He is survived by daughter, Gail and husband Richard Dell; son, Gary and wife Leslie Pearlman; grandchildren, Kate Kressmann-Kehoe and husband Michael, David Griffis and wife Erin, and Laura Griffis and husband Chris Marshall; and five adored great-grandchildren.
Mr. Griffis will be laid to rest with his wife at the Harrington Cemetery, Pemaquid, on their anniversary date, May 17, at a time to be announced.
Contributions may be made in memory of Fred Griffis to the Rutherford Library, 2000 State Rt. 129, South Bristol, ME 04568.
Arrangements are entrusted to Strong Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
