Elmhurst University faculty and staff remember Larry Fricke

On Feb. 7, it was announced that Larry Fricke, a part-time employee and former Director of Career Experiences in the Weigand Center for Professional Excellence, passed away on Feb. 2. 

Fricke began working at Elmhurst University in 1984 after joining the Office of Development, now called the Institutional Advancement, after a 35 year career in sales and management. For the next 30 years, he was a volunteer fundraiser before retiring in 2014. 

Larry Carroll, a professor in the Department of Business and Economics, will remember Fricke for his tremendous impact he made on campus and his willingness to help others. 

“Over his many years of being part of the Elmhurst University community, Larry looked for ways to add friends to the university,” said Carroll. 

He continued, “He spread the word about how Elmhurst is committed to providing a quality learning experience that prepares students to make a difference in the world. Larry was a humble individual who looked for ways to recognize the work of others.” 

Along with the many accomplishments Fricke made on campus, he was the recipient of the 1996 President’s Founders Medal, and the recipient of the inaugural Volunteer Emeritus recognition by the Board. 

President Troy VanAken will remember Fricke for his dedication and the ongoing support he gave even after retirement. 

“Larry was so dedicated to Elmhurst University, not only when he actively volunteered here but even after his (second) retirement—he was always steadfast in his support,” said VanAken. 

VanAken continued, “I will never forget how he and his wife, Jackie, welcomed Annette and me when we joined the University. I also appreciated the wise advice he gave me personally. In many ways, he was a strong contributor to much of our recent success. We send our deepest condolences to his family, especially to Holly Coffin (retired director of employer relations and internships), another longtime, beloved member of our Elmhurst family.” 

For the community to get to know EU, Fricke started Elmhurst: College and Community group for residents to get to know the campus and participate in events. The group had over 100 residents and was a great way to get the community involved. 

Chaplain Scott Matheney will remember Fricke’s passion for helping students and the love he had for the campus and community.

“Larry was a great ambassador for Elmhurst. He was a ‘friendraiser.’ He opened doors for new relationships that lead to financial contributions, and more so, he found internships for students given his wide network of connections,” said Matheney.

He continued, “He loved this community and was a deeply faithful christian, that wanted to help open the doors of this university for all. He always had a positive attitude and loved people. Our university is so much bigger because of him.” 

A memorial service was held at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana on Feb. 11, and a reception honoring Fricke will be held on Feb. 19 at the Chaplain’s residence.