Eric Stephen Frey, a beloved husband, father, and pappy passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana at the age of 72.  He was born on May 23, 1952 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Norma and John Frey.  He was the “Golden Child” among 4 sisters and was never in trouble. He loved to taunt and torment them as much as he could get away with.

He graduated from Manual High School in 1970  and was a standout athlete in baseball and basketball.  He went on to continue his athletic career at Franklin College as a pitcher for the baseball team and later tried out for the Cincinnati Reds. He graduated college from Indiana Central/University of Indianapolis with a degree in business. He worked various jobs throughout his life. He spent many years as the vice president of AF&B bank before moving on to  the 911 services division of Indiana Bell. His final job was at Ternes Packaging, a division of Allison Transmissions, as the General Manager. 

Eric was married for 52 years to the love of his life, Beverly.  They had two children together, Amy and Jason.  In his early years, Eric spent a great deal of time coaching his kids in various sports. He was never able to beat his kids in HORSE, despite his claims. As his kids got older, he enjoyed his time on the sidelines watching and yelling at the refs and umps. He was even removed from the backstop a time or two. Even though sports was his first passion, he was also an avid card player and quite the bowler. He loved playing cards with his family and friends, especially Texas hold’em poker and euchre.  Just like sports, Eric didn’t like to lose in cards and often “got his panties in a bunch” especially when playing Uno and being given multiple draw four cards. Eric loved to bowl and participated in leagues and  National Tournaments with his family. 

Eric gained many nicknames in his life, but the one of “Big Smooth”, given to him by his favorite son-n-law, seemed to be the most popular.  He was known affectionately as “Big Smooth” to all that knew and loved him, especially his grandchildren, who created many variations of it.  He was also known for his corky comments that he used to tease his grandchildren with.

In his later years, Eric spent his time watching his grandchildren participate in their various sports and watching sports on television.  He was a beloved Bobby Knight and Indiana Hoosiers fan and didn’t miss a game.  He loved watching his Hoosiers, Colts, Pacers and any other basketball or baseball game he could find.  He loved rattling off stats from various teams and players throughout the years. 

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Beverly; his children Amy (Anthony) Hurt, and Jason (Amanda) Frey; his grandchildren Tyler, Jaxon, Lexie, Mya, Jordan, and Doug; as well as his mother, Norma Frey; his sisters, Vicki Pemberton, Cheri Benefiel, Donna Hammel, and Laura Ash; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, John Frey.

Eric will be missed deeply by all who knew him. He  may be gone from this world, but the love he shared and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those he touched.  He was one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 4pm-8pm at The Gymnastics Company located at 5646 Mutual Ln, Indianapolis, Indiana 46239. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a monetary donation to The Parkinson’s Foundation in Memory of Eric Frey.  www.parkinson.org

Arrangements entrusted to Simple Cremation Indianapolis, 6904 S. East Street, Suite E, Indianapolis, IN., (317)361-4516.