Glenn E. Fritz, 92, Manhattan
Glenn Fritz, age 92, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully at home according to his wishes with family by his side, Sunday, July 30.
Glenn is survived by a daughter Diane (Richard) Tordai; four sons; Wayne (Becky), Gary (Debi), Richard (Cindy) and Robert (Alice) Fritz as well as 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Glenn was preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years Bernadine Fritz (nee Jaksetich) in 2021 and his son Glenn Fritz, Jr., his parents Oscar and Wilhelmina (nee Horn), his sister, Dorothy Walsh and two brothers, Norman and Kenneth Fritz.
Glenn lived in Manhattan and worked on the family farm (est. 1887) his entire life, where he built a legacy while embracing the modernization of farming, involving his wife and kids along the way. From farming with his father, brother Kenneth and his five sons, to working 19 winters at Lockport Steel Fabricators, Glenn never rested until the next generation took over.
In later years, he restored many John Deere tractors, wagons, and miscellaneous farm equipment, creating his own museum of agriculture.
Glenn was a family man who cherished every moment with his loved ones. He was a passionate, devoted and faithful member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Joliet, serving as a church Elder and on various church committees.
Glenn was an active member of the Will County Farm Bureau, serving on many committees such as Agriculture in the Classroom and Governmental Affairs, where he felt he made a difference educating people about farming. He served two terms as President of the Will County Farm Bureau, where he helped establish the Will County Farm Bureau Foundation and served as chairmen of that committee as well. Glenn was also President of Union School Board for many years.
Visitation was held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory on August 4, with funeral services at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Joliet on Saturday, Aug. 5; the Rev. David Totsky officiating.
Interment was held at Elmhurst Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Will County Farm Bureau Foundation and to St. Peter Lutheran Church will be appreciated.