Obituary of Paul F. Fritz

Paul F. Fritz, of Glastonbury, moved onto Heaven peacefully on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at the conclusion of a life well-lived for 93 years. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Merriman) Fritz. He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph Fritz, and sister, Rose Kupchunos, and wives Linda (Parmelee) Fritz and June (Mullen) Fritz.

Born in Hartford, he was the son of the late Louis and Carmela (D’Abersa) Fritz. Paul is a former East Hartford and South Glastonbury resident. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, stationed in Japan and China, and recalls his time most vividly after the bombing in Pearl Harbor. Paul had a passion for his work as a Supervisor at HELCO (Hartford Electric Light Company) and enjoyed Wednesday morning breakfast with his coworkers for many years beyond his retirement in 1991. He also delighted in the welcoming he enjoyed at Ken’s Corner, The Glastonbury Coffee Shop and Finn’s, where he and Patti shared his favorite meal with the canine friend of the moment. Paul was never at a loss for fun, enjoying his roller skating and car races until he was 85 . At 91, Paul was still an avid bowler and respected member of his team. He particularly loved teaching his grandson, Peter, how to improve his technique on his Special Olympics (Our Vision) bowling team. As a compassionate dog lover, we are comforted by his reuniting with Paddington, Jake, Abbey, and Poochie at the Rainbow Bridge. Paul lived every day of his 93 years with passion and met his challenges with dignity and grace, teaching all of us how to show up for life with commitment, humor and compassion. For those fortunate enough to have known him, his presence will be sadly missed but remembered in the multitude of memories in our hearts.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Deborah A. Fritz-Bradeen of Westport, husband Peter, grandchildren Pete, Luke (Georgia), Ethan; his son Steven Fritz of Wallingford, granddaughter Angela Farrell (Shawn), great grandchildren Kailani and Damian; beloved stepdaughters Kathleen Doerfler of New Hampshire and Kelly Krivacs of Massachusetts and their respective children; adored goddaughter Anne Gauthier of New Hartford; and many cherished nieces and nephews. The family has much gratitude for his Hospice team of Robyn, Laura, Joan, Tracey, Liz and Djibril, as they loved him through his transition.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, February 10, 2019 at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury. Family and friends may call on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm at the funeral home, with a Celebration of Life and Military Honors at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions in his memory be sent to his grandson’s team: Our Vision ℅ Jack Breeden 3 Dorchester Drive, Westport, CT 06880.