J. Roger Fries, 72, husband of L. Dawn (Lanute) Fries, of East Coventry Township, passed away Wednesday, January 4, 2012, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born in St. Peter's Village to John E. and the late Gladys (Essick) Fries. Roger was a retired truck driver having last worked for Walter J. Styer of Eagle, PA. Roger loved sports, having played baseball and softball on many teams throughout the area in his younger years. He enjoyed teaching and coaching in the Spring Ford Babe Ruth League in the 1970's. His favorite pastime was fishing. He grew up at the Falls of French Creek, St. Peter's Village, and from there fished the rivers, lakes and oceans of the United States and Canada. He spent recent summers on the Susquehanna River at Danville, PA, where he caught many fish and felt at peace with nature. In addition to his wife and father he is survived by son, Jeffrey W. and wife Maxine Fries of San Clemente, California, and son John Heilner of Pottstown, sisters, Shirley (James) Sandoski of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Leslie (David) Brennan of Reading, Brother Michael Fries of Royersford, grandchildren Lisa Coopersmith and Bradley (Denise) Cotton, nieces, nephews and their children and many loving and supportive friends. He was predeceased by son Gary A. Fries. His funeral service will be held Tuesday, January 17th at 11:00 a.m. at the Shalkop Grace & Strunk Funeral Home, Bridge and Church Streets, Spring City. Burial to follow in the East Vincent United Church of Christ Cemetery, Spring City. Visitation will be held Tuesday in the funeral home from 10-11am. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in his memory to the Pottstown Regional Cancer Center, 1600 East High Street, Pottstown, PA 19464. On line condolences may be made at www.sgsfuneralhome.com.