David L. Frey

David L. Frey, 74, of Newton, NJ, and formerly of Manheim, PA, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Newton Medical Center. Born in Lancaster, PA, he was the son of the late Lloyd S. and Ruth Fuhrman Frey.

David was a proud 1969 graduate of Manheim Central High School, where he was active in swimming and running, and also expressed his creativity through music. He played the organ and was a member of a band during his youth, setting the foundation for a lifelong connection to the arts. He later earned a degree in Fine Arts from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.

Over the course of his life, David worked as a fine artist, both privately and within the commercial art world. He was particularly renowned for his attention to detail, his trompe l'oeil murals, and his custom finishing work. His extraordinary talent produced many beautiful, original paintings, including several depictions of local churches, which remain displayed at the Buch Funeral Home to this day.

David's artistic contributions extended far beyond local projects; he created murals and architectural designs for private homes and commercial spaces throughout Pennsylvania, Raleigh, NC, New Jersey, New York City, and Naples, FL. His passion for art was matched only by his love for the people and places around him.

A lifelong lover of the outdoors, David found joy in fishing, boating, and relaxing at the lake house in Crandon Lakes, NJ. He was also a devoted animal lover, often found in the company of his loyal dog and beloved cats.

David was a kind and whimsical soul with a deep devotion to his family and close friends. He is survived by his life partner of 24 years, Athanasia Lambros, of New York, NY; a son, Casey Frey, husband of Christina Frey, of Washington Boro; a daughter, Hillary Fluhr, wife of Mike Fluhr, of Lancaster; and four beloved grandchildren: Nia, Violet, Piper, and River. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Frey, husband of Karen Frey, of York, and his sister, Peggylynn Frey Myers Himmelberger, wife of John Himmelberger, of Lancaster. Preceding him in death are his parents, Lloyd S. Frey and Ruth Fuhrman Frey, and his brother, Alan Frey.

David's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his art will continue to inspire for years to come.

A Celebration of Life honoring David will be held later this summer at Buch Funeral Home, 21 Market Square, Manheim. Services will be announced at a later date.