Obituary of Gary Robert Friggens

Gary Robert Friggens, 78, of Morgantown, died on Friday, July 26, 2024 at his residence. He was born on September 12, 1945 in Detroit, a son of Francis G. and Jane (Pettit) Friggens. He received a BA degree in physics and mathematics from Albion College, Albion, Michigan in 1967 and pursued graduate studies in physics and engineering at the University of Maryland and West Virginia University. He was employed by the U.S. Dept. of Energy and its predecessor agencies at the Morgantown Energy Technology Center (now National Energy Technology Laboratory) from 1969 to 1995. Following 11 years of retirement, he accepted a position with the Morgantown Public Library, working at the Aull Center for Local History and Genealogy Research from 2006 to 2017. Gary was a member of Avery United Methodist Church, Morgantown. In addition to genealogical research, his interests included flower and shrub gardening, reading (early American history), hiking and walking. He enjoyed the outdoors and, while his health permitted, frequently backpacked with his younger son, Jason. Later, he volunteered at the West Virginia Botanic Garden. He is survived by a son, Brian J. Friggens of Morgantown; two grandchildren, Samantha P. and Abigail S. Friggens; a brother, Thomas G. Friggens (Mary) of Marquette, Michigan; and two nephews, Christopher (Debra) Friggens of Grand Haven, Michigan, and Michael Friggens of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Susan Jane (McClung) Friggens, in 2015, and a son, Jason R. Friggens, in 2024. In accordance with his wishes, cremation services are being provided by Hastings Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at Avery United Methodist Church, 1152 Cheat Road, Morgantown on Sunday, October 13th at 12:15pm, immediately following Sunday service, with Pastor Todd Hurley officiating. It was Gary's desire that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the West Virginia Botanic Garden, PMB #121, 714 Venture Drive, Morgantown, WV 26508-7306; Amedysis Hospice, 5006 Mid Atlantic Drive, Morgantown, WV 26508; or Avery United Methodist Church, 1152 Cheat Road, Morgantown, WV 26508. Send condolences online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com