Elden Fritsch

ELDEN "AUDY" H. FRITSCH ROCK FALLS - Elden "Audy" H. Fritsch, 82, of Rock Falls, died Monday, July 30, 2012 at his home. Elden was born November 22, 1929 in Sterling, the son of Cecil and Mayme (Hollis) Fritsch. He was well known in the lumber business and was employed as building material sales for Johnston Lumber Company, Wolohan's and Frary Lumber Company. In 1991, he was chosen for the Customer Service Hall of Fame by Wolohan Lumber. He served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic in the Korean Conflict. Elden married Marilyn Ann Peterson on August 5, 1950. She preceded him in death in 1992. He then married Gwendolyn Schmidt in 1993. Elden was a member of Sterling Moose Lodge and the American Legion Post 296. He was also a member of Coloma Township Board serving as a trustee and clerk for 47 years. Elden also was the chairman of Rock Falls Dog Control for many years. He attended Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Falls. Elden was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was a hard worker and enjoyed working around his home, especially on his restored Farmall B tractor. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed being with them. Elden always enjoyed dancing at the Moose. Survivors include his wife, Gwendolyn; two sons, Randy (Mary) Fritsch, of Rock Falls, and Gregg Fritsch, of Edwardsville; one step-daughter, Connie Jean Venema, of Davenport, IA; three grandchildren, Brianna, Ryan (Brianna), and Clint Fritsch; one step-grandchild, Alex Venema; and one brother, Gary (Pat) Fritsch, of Tampico. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Donna Roth and Nyla Frey; and one brother, Bill Fritsch. Services will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, August 3, 2012 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Falls with Reverend Henrietta Milner, officiating. Entombment will be at the Mausoleum at Riverside Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM, Thursday, August 2, 2012 at Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling. A memorial has been established to the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com.