Kurt R. Fredland ’70

A shining example of those who made great use of a Princeton economics education in the real world, Kurt died at his Texas lake house Oct. 3, 2024.

He came to us on a naval scholarship from Annapolis High School. Immediately curious about economics, he worked with Uwe Reinhardt on his thesis about the burgeoning costs of medical care. He was a member of Elm Campus. Following four years of active service with the Navy in the Pacific, he earned an MBA at Wharton. He and wife Nina then laid down roots in Houston, where he was based the remainder of his life; he spent extended periods with both First City Texas Bank and Western National Life. Kurt always managed to show up for his kids’ school and athletic activities, while carefully keeping himself in voice for the required cheering by singing enthusiastically from the pew each Sunday.

Kurt is survived by his wife of 51 years, Nina Fredland; their children, Mari, Nick, and Jon; 13 grandchildren; and his brothers, Eric, Robert, and Mark. All of us, with them, will miss his warmth and devotion to his family and community, and learn again from his exemplary application of the wisdom we found together all those years ago.