Daniel Jay Fritz, Sr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Daniel Jay Fritz, Sr., 63, of Rhinelander, who passed away unexpectedly at his home on April 19, 2025. He was born on September 1,1961 in Rhinelander to William and Gladys Fritz.

Daniel was a graduate of Rhinelander High School and the DeVry University in Illinois. He was employed at Ahlstrom Paper Mill for 33 years as a millwright/pipefitter and also held various positions for many years with the United Steel Workers International Union Local 2-15.

Daniel was a loving husband and a wonderful parent and grandparent. He taught his children many life skills such as hunting, fishing, camping and also many trades which have helped them throughout their lives. He was always just a phone call away for his children and to anyone who needed help or advice. He enjoyed the years he played fastpitch in the Rhinelander Muny League. He was a great dancer and loved to dance with his wife. He also enjoyed golfing with his buddies and played horseshoes and pool for many years. His love of hunting and fishing never waivered and continued throughout his lifetime.

Daniel’s gentle nature and unwavering kindness touched the lives of everyone he met. His warm heart and compassion will forever be cherished. He was a very special man and will always be remembered by all who knew him.

Daniel is survived by his loving wife, Tina (Bushong) Fritz, his mother, Gladys (Miller) Fritz, his daughter Jacquelin (Nicole) Fritz of Marion, sons Daniel Fritz, Jr, Donovan Fritz and Dalton Fritz, all of Rhinelanders, his stepchildren Elizabeth Olson, Sarah Olson, Chad Olson, Angela (Jeremy) Brandenburg and his former stepdaughter Vanessa (Reed) Larzarz. Also survived by 18 grandchildren, his sisters Terri (Timothy) Ripp of Rhinelander and Toni Fritz of Green Bay, his brother William Fritz of Rhinelander and many nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his brother-in-law’s Brian, Jeff and Brad Bushong. Daniel also leaves behind two very special friends whom he also had the privilege of working with and whose friendships meant the world to him, Robert “Bubba” Smith of Rhinelander and Michael “Murph” Moore of Rhinelander. He was preceded in death by his father, William Fritz, his granddaughter in heaven, Isabella Fritz, and aunts and uncles. He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.

A celebration of Daniel’s life will be held at the Cabaret Cove, 1540 Pueblo Drive, Rhinelander, on Saturday, June 28, from noon until 4 p.m. You may leave your private condolences for the Fritz family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is handling the arrangements for the family.