All Obituaries

William Charles “Bill” Fritz, 81, was born on December 29, 1943, in Traverse City, Michigan, and passed away peacefully at home in Lake City on December 20, 2025, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Bill proudly served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He entered military service in May 1967 and was honorably discharged in May 1969. During his service, he earned the Expert Rifle Badge (M14) and the National Defense Service Medal, honors reflecting his dedication and discipline.

Bill retired after thirty years with General Motors and later continued part-time concrete and masonry work through Fritz & Son with his son, Harold (“H.C.”).

On September 23, 1967, Bill married Patricia, and together they built a life grounded in love, perseverance, and faith. He enjoyed deer hunting and was a talented woodworker, able to craft nearly anything with his hands. From birdhouses and bookcases to Adirondack chairs and plant stands, Bill found joy in creating. Some of his most cherished projects were the toy boxes he lovingly made for his grandsons, pieces that reflected both his craftsmanship and his devotion to family.

Bill’s strong faith was a guiding light to his family and friends. He faithfully served with The Gideons organization for more than 20 years, was a deacon at Calvary Baptist Church in Lake City, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, living out his faith through service to others.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Fritz; his daughter, Leslee Fritz of Traverse City; his grandsons, Austin Fritz of New Boston, Michigan, and William “Will” (Alli) Fritz of Lake City; his sister, Dianna (Jerry) Stricker of Traverse City; and his brother, Charles (Sandy) Fritz of Lake Ann. He is also survived by many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many, many beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Doris Fritz of Traverse City; his son, Harold Charles Fritz II of Lake City; his sisters, Patricia and Donna (Farmer); and his brother, Thomas.

A private interment will take place in the spring. A memorial service will be held on January 10 at noon with a light lunch to follow at Calvary Baptist Church in Lake City. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to assist with final arrangements.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7