John Fredrick Fritz

John Fredrick Fritz, 85, of Freistatt passed away on Jan. 8, 2026, with his wife by his side at Mercy Hospital Aurora. He was born on Sept. 26, 1940, on the family farm in Freistatt to Martin and Renata (Block) Fritz.
On Sept. 2, 1960, he married the love of his life, Norma June (Carr), at Trinity Lutheran Church. They first met while John was working at the Freistatt Exchange.
He attended grade school in Freistatt and graduated from Monett High School, class of 1958. He worked for 29 years as a shoe cutter at the Juvenile Shoe Factory in Aurora. Before that, he farmed alongside his father.
He is survived by his wife June; two grandchildren; daughter-in-law Harmony; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Renata; his daughter Lydia; his son Russell; brothers James and Charles; and two grandchildren.
Memorial visitation will be held from noon until 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Freistatt. Memorial services will begin at 1 p.m. Interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery. Reverend Jake Sletten will be officiating. Memorial contributions have been suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett.