Lt. Col. (retired) George Fritz

The family of retired Lt. Col. George W. “Bill” Fritz has announced his death on April 17, 2024, in Copperas Cove.

Born July 26, 1933, on the family farm in Arrow Rock, Missouri, he was the only child of Mable Johanna Louise (Kaymmer) and Kenneth William Fritz.

He learned at an early age the value of hard work and supporting family and community members. A quick learner, he was proficient at tractor work and by the age of 10 was independently building ponds, wells and grading land. By age 18, prior to his enlistment, he was supervisor of a road grading crew.

On Feb. 12, 1953, he married his wife of 65 years, Bettie Jane (Dickson).

He re-enlisted in the U.S. Army in November of that year. Following completion of Officer Candidate School and Ranger Airborne School, he held various positions from tank and mortar platoon leader, Commander Supply S-4 and G-4 to retiring in 1974 as assistant chief of staff, comptroller, HHQ, 13th Support, Fort Hood. He served overseas in Germany and Vietnam.

He was preceded in death by his wife.

He is survived by daughters Chris Thompson-Henry, Elizabeth Alvear (John) and Nancy Mullins (Teddy); four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Lt. Col. Fritz was buried with full military honors on April 22 at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen. Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel-Copperas Cove had charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the Wreaths for Vets programs at www.wreathsforvets.org/ donations.