Jim Fritz
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ESCANABA — It is with sadden hearts that we share of the passing of our dad, grandpa, and big Papa, Jim Fritz from this world to a far better place in heaven on Saturday, January 25, 2025. We are rejoicing that he is finally seeing his Lord face to face and reunited with his beloved Jeanne who preceded him in death on December 18, 2022.
James Edgar Allen Fritz was born August 26, 1943 to Edgar and Jennifer Fritz in Modesto, Calif.. Jim was raised in California then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at age 17, serving four years. It was while he was stationed at K.I. Sawyer AFB that he met and married Jeanne Olson of Escanaba, on September 7, 1963. Jim being an avid outdoorsman, settled in Escanaba where he could pursue his interests and raise a family. Family was such a priority that he not only fathered four biological children, adopted a son, they also poured their love and time into many foster kids, boy and girl scouts, and youth group kids.
Jim enjoyed fishing, camping, woodworking, antique restoration, working on cars, walks with all his dogs over the years. Above all those things, Jim loved people. He loved to talk about the Lord with them, counsel the troubled ones, disciple his young people and if he really liked you, he would tease you! He will be long remembered for his sense of humor and crazy shenanigans!
Left to carry on his legacy are his children: Scott (Mary) Fritz of Bark River, Gretchen (Brad) Levesque of Bellevue, NE, Cara (Joel) Olson of Escanaba, Sam Fritz of Escanaba, and Doug (Michelle)of Marinette, Wis. A bonus kid, Sherie (Ken) Kirkpatrick of Beebe, Ark.; grandchildren, Heidi, Nate, Bekah, Noah, Kami, Mikiah, Abby, Isaiah, Rachel, Megan, Evert, and Ryan; bonus grands are Jessica, Ashley, and Zac; great-grandchildren, Joey, Addie, Aven, Caralee, Alden, Warner, David, Lila, and two more on the way. Bonus are Ryder, Deklynn, Haidyn, Merit Grace, Rhett, and Slayton.
Visitation will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, January 30, at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel. The U.S. Air Force honor guard will conduct military honors at the conclusion of the services. Burial will take place in Lakeview Cemetery in Escanaba. The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Fritz family with the arrangements and online condolences can be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.