Thomas Russell Frieze, Jr.

Thomas Russell (T.R.) Frieze Jr.

May 23, 1945 – December 12, 2024

Thomas Russell Frieze Jr., 79, of West Columbia, Texas, passed away on December 12, 2024. He was born on May 23, 1945, in Bay City, Texas, to the late Thomas Russell Frieze Sr. and Freddie Mae Slone Frieze.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Ellen Koehler Frieze of West Columbia; sons Tommy Frieze of West Columbia, Allen Frieze of Houston, and Russell Frieze of Houston.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Russell Frieze Sr. and Freddie Mae Slone Frieze; brother Freddy Elmer Olson; and sister Estha Olson Fowler.

Thomas attended Sweeny High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served his country in Vietnam from 1963 to 1966. Upon returning home, he pursued welding school and built a successful career in the oil and gas industry, retiring in 2009.

On November 11, 1972, Thomas married Ellen Koehler, and together they raised their family in West Columbia, Texas. Thomas had a deep love for classic cars, dove hunting, and above all, using his greatest talent—making people laugh. He will be remembered as a respectful, honest, hard-working man who was deeply devoted to his family and always found a way to provide for them.

Graveside services, with full military honors,  will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Cedar Lawn Haven of Rest Cemetery in West Columbia, Texas, under the direction of C.T. Baker and Sons Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Ray Campbell, Gary Hood, Johnny Hobbins, Sammy Polk, John Jaso, Jeremieh Johnson and honorary Pallbearer, Edward (Britches) Quinney.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.ctbakerfuneral.com