It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Jon Rocco Fry of Grant Center, who passed away December, 25th 2025.

He was born in Big Rapids July 19th 1961 to Dick and Theresa Fry and raised on the Fry farm in Grant Center alongside 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

Jon began school in a one room (Reed) school, then went on to Reed City Schools where he played Tuba in the band. He graduated class of 1979. Shortly after graduation he joined the USMC, proudly serving as a heavy equipment operator from 1979-1983. In 1985 he married the love of his life, Valarie Stadtfeld of Remus. They raised 3 amazing children together in the Mecosta area before building their forever home in Grant Center.

Jon wore many hats in his life. His first job was Parks Sawmill , then onto Paris where he worked over 20 years in the mill and as a truck driver. His last employment was at Burnips as a semi driver hauling equipment which he enjoyed before retirement.

Jon cherished his Family, his Farm, and his Harleys. It brought him great joy to ride with his wife, family and friends. He enjoyed visits from and road trips to see his grandkids. He loved big family gatherings, was an avid deer hunter and always filled his quota. He was a true jack of all trades. Jon could build it all, fix it all and haul it all. He took immense pride in all his work and had an unbeatable work ethic. Jon was named after his grandfather Rocco and his mother, Theresa, sure was proud that she got that right because he filled his shoes well.

He inspired his children to never be afraid to learn something new and was quick to jump in and help (or take over) a project. At home he was always expanding the garden, refinishing a room, working on equipment, or taking his dog Bella and his grandchildren on a buggy ride in the woods. He was a people person, and his candid sense of humor and witty comments will be missed by many. His acts of service to his family and making all his surroundings beautiful fulfilled his dreams.

Jon is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years Val; His dog, and cherished companion Bella; Daughters Tamara (Omeed) Afkhami, Tracy (Jesse) Chandler, and son Tyler; grandchildren, Aurora, Aryan & Aydin of California. Benjamin Rocco, Grace, Abigail, & Willow of Florida; his mother Theresa; brothers Brian (Michelle) Fry and Doug Fry; his sisters Sherri (John) Beam, and Trisha (Peter) Marks; plus many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Rocco and Lucy DeVivo, Amos and Cora Fry; his father Dick; brother Randy and sister Susie.

His work on Earth is done and he will be greatly missed by all. His family is planning a celebration of life at a later date to be announced.

In leu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Big Rapids Animal Shelter in Jon's name.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com