Article updated: 12/12/2012 5:31 AM

Des Plaines River canoe marathon founder dies at 86

Buy this photo Buy this photo
next prev 1 of 2
   
Gallery Image

Ralph Frese of Niles founded the Des Plaines River Canoe Marathon 50 years ago.

Daily Herald file photo

Ralph Frese of Niles founded the Des Plaines River Canoe Marathon 50 years ago.

VINCENT PIERRI/Daily Herald file photo

About this Article

The founder of the Des Plaines River Canoe Marathon, known throughout the state as "Mr. Canoe,' has died. Ralph Frese of Niles died Monday after a short battle with prostate cancer. He was 86. His death sent shock waves through the river sport and conservation communities.