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John Fries

John Fries, NSW Divisional Chairman passed away peacefully on Tuesday 4th August 2009 following complications from a catastrophic fall four weeks earlier which left him paralysed and only able to breathe with the aid of a ventilator.

John joined Red Cross as a co-opted member of the NSW Divisional Finance Committee and Investment Committee in August 2000. His financial skills were put to work as he was quickly promoted to the NSW Executive Committee and Divisional Council later that same year. He was a member of the NSW Audit Committee from 2002-2007. He was elected Honorary Treasurer of the NSW Division in 2003, a position which encompassed the roles of Chairman of the Divisional Finance and Investment Committees.

John Fries
1943-2009

John went on to play an active governance and leadership role including appointment to the National Council in 2003 and as NSW Deputy Chairman in 2005. He was appointed NSW Divisional Chairman in October 2007. Through this role he also became a Director on the National Red Cross Board where he was a strong contributor, particularly on financial matters.

John received a Red Cross Service Award in May 2006.

John was an indefatigable advocate for Red Cross both at a state and national level. He will be sorely missed by colleagues, members, volunteers and staff on whom he made a strong and lasting impression as a committed and caring humanitarian.

John's family have let us know that John felt privileged to be so involved in such a worthwhile and established humanitarian organisation and honoured to be Chairman of the NSW Board of Red Cross.

The untimely death of such a strong and active contributor and leader has distressed all at Red Cross.