Michael Frey

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

It is with a blend of sorrow and joy that we bid farewell to Michael Wayne Frey, known to many as Mike or Big Mike. The sorrow comes from the void his absence leaves in our lives, but the joy stems from the legacy of laughter and love he leaves behind. Michael was born in Carthage, Missouri, on January 8, 1958, and took his final pit stop from this grand race of life on March 27, 2026, at his residence in Webb City, Missouri.

Big Mike was a man of many talents. He was as reliable as a well-oiled engine and as quick-witted as a champion drag racer. He was a devoted employee at the Dyno Nobel Dynamite Plant for 42 years, retiring in 2020. However, Mike’s work was not confined to the boundaries of the plant. He was a natural handyman, always ready to lend a hand with a loving smile. He was a jack of all trades and a master of many. His hobbies were as varied as his Hot Wheels collection—from car restoration and building model cars to fishing.

Michael was a man who always put family first. He was the comedian of the family, constantly cracking jokes and making everyone laugh. His love for his family ran as deep as his passion for cars and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Frey, and his spouse, Becky Frey. His legacy and spirit of love and laughter live on in his son, Michael Frey Jr.; his wife, Marilyn; his daughter, Jackie, and her husband, Brandon Molloy; and his grandchildren, Maisie, Reegin, Leilynn, and Mia. He also cherished his relationship with his mother, Theresia Frey; his sisters, Debbie and Connie, and Connie’s husband, David; his brothers-in-law, Doy and his wife, Ruth, and Herbie and his wife, Patsy; his sister-in-law, Darlene, and her husband, Glenn; along with many nieces and nephews.

In his honor, keep your engines revving, your fishing lines tight, and your laughter loud. Like a Hot Wheels car, Michael’s journey was fast, exciting, and filled with love. His ride may be over, but his spirit continues to race on in our hearts.

In remembrance of Michael, a visitation will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. This will be followed by a celebration of life at 6:30 p.m. at the same location. As Michael would have said, “Why cry when you can laugh?” So let’s remember him with smiles, laughter, and lots of love.

Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and fond memories of Michael.