03/22/2023
Who built the Berm House?
Introducing Ken Fryar - Architect of the Berm House. Ken was born in Wanatah, Indiana on September 5, 1924. He graduated from Wanatah High School and the Architectural school at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In 1946 he married Mary Ruth “Cris” Crisman. He served in the Navy as a radar technician during WWII and returned to graduate from the five year program at the University of Michigan in 1948. He came to Michigan City and worked for Tonn and Blank until 1952 when he received his architectural license. He formed Ken Fryar Associates and practiced architecture until 2004. His practice covered a wide range of work including nursing homes, banks, schools, industrial buildings, hospitals, medical office buildings, single and multi-family residential complexes and the development of many sub-divisions in and around Michigan City. The work ranged from Maryland, Nebraska, Wyoming, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Costa Rica. Ken served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and was instrumental in bringing urban renewal to Michigan City in the 1960’s. He served as a member and president of the Urban Redevelopment Commisssion for a period of six years. During that time the West Side and North End projects were completed. Ken received many awards from the national American Institute of Architects and the Indiana chapter, including a presidential award from Lady Bird Johnson’s beautification program which was presented in Chicago by Senator John Warner. Ken served on the Board of Directors of First Federal Savings and Loan from 1969 to 1997, during which time it became Community Bank and then Pinnacle Bank. He was a member of Pottawattomie Country Club, Michigan City Rotary Club and First Presbyterian Church. Ken spent his entire life creating beauty for others to enjoy. He was generous with his time, talents and love; no matter how large or small the request he was always willing to help. Throughout his life he quietly and courageously faced every challenge, always trying to improve the quality of life for everyone around him with his unfailing positive attitude.
Kenneth Fryar September 5, 1924 - April 17, 2013