‘A legacy of integrity, service and compassion’: Libertyville mourns passing of retired deputy police chief

Libertyville police and the community are mourning the loss of retired Deputy Chief Ronald Fry, 82, a longtime village resident who died Oct. 30 peacefully at home.

An Army veteran, Fry served in numerous roles during a 41-year career including patrolman, equestrian officer, detective, juvenile and crime prevention officer, patrol sergeant, lieutenant and finally retiring as deputy chief.

Deeply committed to the community, Fry was a familiar presence at Libertyville High School athletic events and dances and had a passion for working with young people as a juvenile officer, according to his obituary.

Career highlights included serving on the campaign security detail for President George H.W. Bush and rescuing residents from a fire at the Cook Apartments. He received a life saving medal for that effort just six months before retiring and was recognized as an honorary firefighter, according to a police department social media post.

Raised in Otway, Ohio, Fry moved to North Chicago to begin a career at Abbott Laboratories.

Returning to Abbott after Army service, his path changed when a friend on the Libertyville police department took him for a ride-along.

Fry was a family man above all else and loved coaching his sons in baseball and softball and leading their teams to numerous championships.

“Beyond his badge, Ron was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose legacy of service, integrity, and compassion will not be forgotten,” the police department post read. “His impact on this department and the community he spent a lifetime protecting will continue to be remembered.”

Fry is survived by his wife of 60 years, Martha; sons Scott and Chris; and two grandchildren.

Visitation is from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4 at McMurrough Funeral Chapel, 101 Park Place, Libertyville. A prayer service with military honors will follow at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a favorite charity.

mzawislak@dailyherald.com