Edwin Fry
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Edwin Joseph Fry went to be with the Lord on October 03, 2020. Born November 18, 1939 to Harry Edwin Fry and Ann (Palian) Fry, in McKeesport Pa. As a young boy, Edwin discovered that he could run to St. Peters School, where he attended grades 1-12, faster than he could get there on the bus. This became his destiny. A gifted musician and athlete, Ed attended Loras College in Iowa, majoring in music and participating in track and field. Later he attended De Paul University, where he got his Masters Degree in Music Education. He was their Number One long distance runner. He did Doctoral work at the University of Wisconsin. In 1966, Ed accepted a faculty position at Indiana University of PA, teaching piano and music subjects. Thanks to Coach Lou Sutton inviting him to run with the team, he gradually began to coach the Men's Cross Country team. In 1976, with direction from Dr. Ruth Podbilski, he started the Women's Cross Country team. A talented Coach, he went on to coach both teams to excellence, until his retirement in 2009, taking them to State and National meets, and some athletes went even beyond that. His hard work ethic, his persistence, grit, and his sense of humor will be remembered and cherished by many. Seeing the progression and accomplishments of his athletes and of his many fine musicians was the great joy of his life. Coach Fry had a deep love for IUP. He wore his burgundy and gray until the very end. Edwin was preceeded in death by his parents, his sister Velma, and his son Christopher Charles. He will be sadly missed by his devoted wife Elizabeth (Betsy) Illar Fry, and his son Douglas Patrick, many in-laws, nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his IUP family of colleagues, Cross County and Musician Alumni; his Superstars in all walks of life. Due to the difficulties of the Covid Pandemic, a Memorial Service will be planned for a future time with inurnment at the Oakland Cemetery at Indiana Pa. Arrangements by MILLER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY of Somerset.