Chad Friesz

Chad “Chipper” Friesz passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on October 24, 2025. He was born on February 23, 1986, in Carmel, California.

Chad’s adventurous spirit began early. Beginning his life with his mother in California, he loved exploring tidal pools, fishing wharfs, and coastal towns. He learned to ski at just three years old near Lake Tahoe and attended his first air show, where he sat in an F-15 and enjoyed his first hot dog. His love of the outdoors continued during his time in Jackson, Wyoming, where he spent time hiking, skiing, and exploring with family.

After moving to North Dakota, Chad became the proud big brother to Cody and Amber. He loved weekends at the lake, learning to wakeboard and fish, and time at his grandparents’ farm, where he chased chickens and played in the dirt. Holidays were always special from decorating cookies, dying easter eggs, carving pumpkins, and keeping the magic of Santa alive for his younger siblings.

Chad developed a talent and love for art and soccer. He also had an unmatched gift for storytelling, especially when explaining how he got a black eye, muddy clothes, or a mysteriously clean car. His mischievous adventures were legendary and will be shared for years to come. He graduated from Mandan High School and attended Moorhead State University, where he discovered his love for bartending and began a lifelong career in the restaurant industry.

Chad moved to Bozeman nearly 20 years ago to manage Buffalo Wild Wings, where his real adventures began. He spent his free time snowboarding, rock climbing, hiking, camping, and rafting. Often unplugging completely to enjoy the peace of the mountains. He shared many of these experiences with family and friends, always leading the way.

Throughout his career, Chad managed and worked with several Bozeman favorites, including Old Chicago, Dave’s Sushi, and Black Bull. He loved the restaurant world for one simple reason: the people. His coworkers and customers became forever friends, and he always opened his home to anyone who needed a place for the holidays.

Chad will be remembered for his kindness, laughter, and the way he made everyone feel heard. He loved deeply, debated passionately, and lived life fully. Though he didn’t visit family as often as they wished, they knew his heart was always with them and that his life was full of adventure, friendship, and love.

He is survived by his mother Mary (Jeff) Sundheim; father Wayne (Carol) Friesz; brother Cody Friesz; sister Amber (Carl) Rohde; step-siblings Zach (Jess) Sundheim; Ashley (Reese) Duncan; Rachel (Zach) Reisenauer; Steph Schmidt-Claymore; Savannah Schmidt; grandparents Rosemary McIntosh, Clifford and Marlys Friesz and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather Robert McIntosh, step grandmother Audry Sundheim, all great-grandparents, and his beloved dog Winston. Chad’s heart was shared with many, especially his forever love Sophie, and dear friends Sienna, Jane and Levi. His dogs, Winston, Albert, and Randy, were his constant companions and greatest joy.

A celebration of Chad’s life will be held Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Black Bull Golf Club (Restaurant) 148 Highnoon Way in Bozeman from 1:00–5:00 p.m. Friends, coworkers, and all who shared in his adventures are invited to come anytime and share stories and memories. A memorial service will also be held at First Lutheran Church in Mandan, ND on Tuesday, November 4th at 10:30am (central time).

In lieu of flowers, please honor Chad with a donation to: Big Sky Youth Empowerment, P.O. Box 6757, Bozeman, MT 59771 or Mandan Soccer Club, 1101 Redwing Drive SE, Mandan, ND 58554 in memory of Chipper Friesz.

Chad lived a life of laughter, adventure, and love. His smile, his stories, and his generous heart will be missed by all who knew him.