On September 30, 2012, Edward Gerard Fritz died at home in South Carolina with his family by his side. He faced his long term illness with grace and dignity. He fought bravely to the end and is now at peace. Ed was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on March 10, 1926. As a young man, he served in the United States Navy during World War II. When he returned home, he continued his studies at the University of Notre Dame and graduated with a Mechanical (Industrial) Engineering degree as the gold medalist. Ed is survived by his wife and best friend of over sixty years, Orell Winchester. He was a loving father to Cindy, Kathie (Charlie), Ed (Debbie), Annette, Lori and Steve. He was a proud and caring grandfather to Cala, BJ (Kiana), Jamie, Geoff (Angela), Krista, Carolyn, Eddie, Kaitlyn, Emma, Sarah, Rebecca, Sam, Isaac, Hayley, Leah and Ayden, and great-grandfather to Tatiana, Madison and Lauren. He was the brother of Mary Ellen (Joe) both deceased, Jean Ann deceased, Barb (Tom) both deceased, John (Fran) and Don (Karen). Ed and his family moved to Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1963 where he was the President of Steelcase Canada until his retirement in 1983. During this time he was greatly respected in the office furniture industry throughout the United States and Canada. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Stephen’s Church, 750 Gladstone Dr. S.E., East Grand Rapids, on July 6th at 11:00 am. Visitation will be at the Church one hour prior to Mass. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
