Ronald Fritz

Ronald James Fritz, 74, of Fife Lake, died Tuesday, July 6, 2021. He was born Jan. 18, 1947 in Cadillac, the son to Fredrick Edward and Dolores Elzier (Malbouef) Fritz.

Ron received his bachelor’s of science degree from Northern Michigan University.

Early in life, Ron was a school teacher and owned laundromats in Traverse City and Fife Lake. His lifelong passion and career was as an antique dealer, discovering treasures throughout northern Michigan and often traveling to antique shows in the Northeastern U.S. and Florida.

Ron was a talented artist making steampunk lamps, painting, carving, creating and also collecting folk art from around the world. Ron enjoyed spending time in the Upper Peninsula, visiting with his many friends and family members, and telling stories about his adventures.

Ron is survived by his son, Ronald Michael Fritz of Santa Fe, N.M.; and daughter, Katrina M. Fritz of Traverse City; siblings, Patricia (Ott) Hobson of Lake Ann, Richard Fritz of Fife Lake, Donald Fritz of Alma, Ga., Carol (Steve) Hector of Buckley and Barbara (Russell) Fritz Morris of Ft. Myers, Fla.; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Katherine (Pat) Reicha of Traverse City.

Donations in Ron’s memory can be made to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.

An informal gathering will be held 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, July 10, 2021 at Springfield Township Park and Recreation Area, 3983 Lund Road, Fife Lake,

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