Gary Lee Fritsche

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Fritsche. Gary passed away peacefully, at the family home, surrounded by his loved ones, on March 2nd. Gary is survived by his wife, Janet. He was the proud father of Kevin, Michael, and Ryan. He was perhaps even more thrilled to be a Papa to Isabella, Ollie, Emmy, Levi, Riley, and Ashley. He also loved and adored his daughters-in-law, Jennie and Courtney.

A native of San Francisco, and a graduate of Sacred Heart where he excelled at football, he was awarded a full scholarship to the University of Washington. After his time at UW, he was drafted into the US Army, where he served during the Vietnam War in Korea. His love of sports as a boy growing up in the city was passed down to his sons and grandchildren. His fandom for his favorite teams, the Giants, 49ers, and Warriors was on display on any given day, or summer afternoon as the whole neighborhood would know when something good happened. In retirement he enjoyed golfing with his buddies, and could be found holding court with a large group of retirees at Noah’s Bagels.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Lois, his sister Janis Duvauchelle, and brother Carl. He is survived by his sister, Colleen, and her husband Glenn Colburn.

Our Dad was fiercely devoted to his family. There wasn’t a game he would miss, a sport he wouldn’t coach, or an opportunity he would let pass by to provide his family with whatever they needed to be successful. His stories, charm, wit, and ability to make any conversation he had feel meaningful will be sorely missed. He was our hero, and we will be forever grateful for the life he provided for all of us. We love you!

A celebration of life, hosted by Janet and her sons will be on Saturday, April 20th at the Petaluma Golf and Country Club from 11am-2pm.