James Christopher Fritz ,87, of Russell, Kansas went to eternal peace on November 1, 2024. Jim was born on November 27, 1936 in Dearborn, Michigan to David John and Rosella Olive (Hite) Fritz. Jim was born into a family of nine children of which he was the fourth. He grew up in Michigan and attended schools there. He joined the Navy on August 27, 1954 and served for thirteen years. During his navy years, he served his country as a radioman being deployed on several different ships around the world. His main base was in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a Vietnam War veteran. He was honorably discharged on August 19, 1967. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 6240 in Russell, Kansas. After his service in the Navy, Jim became a tool and die maker and worked for ABCO Wire in Russell, Kansas for 24 years. He retired in 2000.
Jim was married to Janice Perry on September 20, 1958. Two children joined the family at that time, Arden and Perry (Bud). This union was also blessed with three additional sons, James Jr (Chris), Richard and Bryan. The couple later divorced. Jim was able to find love a second time and married Carol Thompson on September 5, 1981. This union joined two more children to the family, Michael and Donna. Jim and Carol were married for 43 years and shared many happy days and adventures together, including annual road trips around the country. As a couple, Jim and Carol were crafters making musical instruments and various other projects. They spread joy with their crafts, traveling to many states. Jim’s most favorite thing to do was entertain family, especially grand and great-grandchildren, and craft show goers with his magic tricks, therefore he acquired the nickname of “Magic Grandpa”.
Jim is survived by his wife, Carol and their seven children and families. Arden (Greg) Jones, Bud (Teresa) Fritz, Chris (Shari) Fritz, Richard (Lee) Fritz, Bryan Fritz and significant other (Barb), Michael (Stephanie) Thompson, Donna (Barney) Williams and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Lois Celkis, brother, David Fritz, and sister Judy Kochans along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, three brothers Robert (Bill) , Russell, Leroy (Tom), and two sisters Shirley Barends and Joretta Okalski.
Jim’s wish was to be cremated, and a celebration of life service will be held at 10:30 on November 8, 2024, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with Pastor Teri Sutherlin officiating. Burial will be at the St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Russell, Kansas. Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at the mortuary. Family will greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Thursday evening. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established with St. John Lutheran Church or the VFW Post #6240 in Russell, Kansas. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary who is in charge of final arrangements.