Tuesday, October 15, 2019
FMC Mourns Former Association President Lou Frey
Florida Congressman was a lifetime public servant
(Washington, DC) – The board of directors, membership and staff of FMC, the Association of Former Members of Congress, mourn the passing of former U.S. Representative Lou Frey of Florida. We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Frey Family during this difficult time.
Frey served as FMC’s President from 1996-1998.
Lou’s entire professional life was focused on public service. He served in the United States Navy for three years, and in the Naval Reserve for an additional twenty, retiring as a Captain in 1978. He represented Florida’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1969 until 1973, and the state’s 9th Congressional District until 1979.
Following his political career, he joined the law firm of Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed. But even while in private practice, Lou continued in public service, most notably through the Lou Frey Institute at the University of Central Florida. The Institute promotes the development of enlightened, responsible and actively engaged citizens, primarily through civic education focused on the high school classroom.
Lou Frey’s positive impact on FMC cannot be overstated. He was a long-time board member, an officer of the Executive Committee, Vice President, and FMC President. He was instrumental in creating financial stability for FMC, led the effort to establish FMC’s Statesmanship Awards Dinner (which he chaired for many years following his FMC Presidency), and brought a renewed sense of effort and energy to programs such as FMC’s Congress to Campus Program.
“Without Lou’s commitment and leadership, FMC would not be where it is today,” said Pete Weichlein, CEO of FMC. “He was so proud of all that FMC has accomplished and stands for, and those of us who have been part of FMC’s journey for the past two decades know that the foundation of today’s success is a direct result of Lou’s vision and energy.”
To recognize Lou’s outstanding contribution to FMC, he received from the organization its Distinguished Service Award in 2009. In addition, FMC established a scholarship in Lou’s name at his local high school, Winter Park High School.
As Martin Frost, current FMC President, shared: “America has lost a true patriot and an exemplary public servant. FMC has lost an inspiring leader and a good friend. We hope the Frey Family knows how much we appreciate all Lou has given to FMC. They are in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time.”
-30-