Fred M. Briggs

Architect Frederick Monroe Briggs, 83, who was instrumental in the early planning and design of the master plans for Laguna Beach, passed away Jan. 28 in San Juan Capistrano after a long illness.

A memorial service was scheduled Friday, Feb. 22, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Edwards the Confessor Catholic Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, in Dana Point.

Born in Detroit, Mich., his family moved to Southern California when Fred was 12. He served honorably in the United States Navy as ensign and skipper of an amphibious craft during the invasion of Okinawa during WWII. Briggs went on to receive a bachelor of architecture degree at the University of Southern California in 1949.

After graduating, he moved to Laguna Beach to establish what would become an extraordinary and successful architectural practice of 52 years, which would impact architectural concepts will beyond California's borders. Briggs' innumerable contributions to the field of architecture were not limited to the timeless residences for which he is best known. He was also a member of the design team for Main Beach Park. Briggs designed his own officeon the corner of St. Ann's and Glenneyre, the Bray Building in South Laguna, the Laguna Beach and Dana Point libraries.

He also served on numerous boards, and was directly responsible for the sign ordinance, which continues to greatly enhance the look of the city today.

A 52 year member of the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Briggs' work brought him extensive professional honors and recognition including being named one of the world's top 100 residential architects by Architectural Digest.

While brilliant and accomplished, Briggs was also sweet, charming and had a wonderful sense of fun. He never uttered an unkind word and loved life and his work in the same way he loved his wife beyond measure.

He leaves behind his loving wife Sharon, son Patrick, his brother Richard and sister Helen. He was preceded in death by his daughter Allison.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a contribution to Habitat for Humanity in Briggs' memory: Bullhead Regional Habitat for Humanity, 2001 Highway 95 #15, Bullhead City, AZ 86442.