Maris Ann Fried passed away in the late evening of February 9th, 2022, at Aurora Zilber Family Hospice Center in Wauwatosa. She was diagnosed with ALS in July of 2020, and despite the difficulties associated with this disease, she brought good ideas, comments, smiles and laughter to her family and friends throughout her illness.

Maris was born to Art and Milita Moeschberger in Decatur, Indiana, on April 4, 1947. She is survived by her husband, Paul and sons Matthew and Nathan (partner, Megan). She is further survived by brothers Olin (Shirley) Moeschberger, and Don (Connie) Moeschberger and sister Karen (Jim McCaffrey) Moeschberger.

Maris graduated as Valedictorian of the class of 1965 from Adams Central High School in Monroe, Indiana. She then attended and graduated from Lakeland College (now University) in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. While attending Lakeland, she met Paul Fried, her future husband. They married in 1969.

At Lakeland, Maris earned two degrees; one in Sociology and the other in English Education. She graduated with honors. Later, while teaching, she earned her Master's in Education degree as well as her Reading Recovery Certificate. 

As an Early Childhood teacher, Maris taught at the Milwaukee Easter Seal Society for Handicapped Children and as an Early Childhood teacher in the West Allis and Menomonee Falls Public School systems. Additionally, she further specialized as a Reading Recovery teacher. Her educational passion was always seen in her assistance given to children and families with unique and special needs. She was held in high regard by her colleagues.

Maris’ church life in the Milwaukee area began at Friedens United Church of Christ. After moving to Menomonee Falls in 1984, the Frieds joined St. Pauls United Church of Christ and later Bethel/Bethany United Church of Christ in Milwaukee. Throughout her caring lifetime, she held many leadership positions for these churches. Her love of music and worship was also seen in her commitments as a church pianist, organist, and devoted choir member.

She was grateful for God’s blessings and always had a passion for helping others. She marched for fair housing in 1968 and later for women’s rights, gun control, and justice for all.

Maris wanted all who knew her to count their blessings, to be kind to all, and to give a helping hand to those in need. 

Maris made our world a nicer, better, and happier place.

The funeral service for Maris will be held on March 5th, 2022, at St. Pauls UCC in Menomonee Falls, WI at 2pm, followed by a fellowship celebrating her life and legacy at 3pm.