Ward Fritz

Fritz, Ward B. Kalamazoo Ward passed away Thursday, November 10, 2016 surrounded by his family at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. He was born August 24, 1928 in Allegan the son of Howard and Enola (Dailey) Fritz. Ward had been a member of the First Baptist Church of Otsego and had served as choir director and deacon and enjoyed singing with the Crusaders. He was currently a member of the Oakwood Bible Church in Kalamazoo. In his spare time Ward enjoyed deer hunting and photography. On February 16, 1948 he married Pauline Beldon-Brown at their home in Otsego. Together they enjoyed traveling on his Gold Wing motorcycle. Pauline preceded him in death on April 9, 1996.On December 12, 1997 at Oakwood Bible Church he married Betty Geverink who survives. Also surviving are children, Douglas (Cathia) Fritz of Plainwell, Pamela (Bradley) Scott of Kalamazoo, Michael (Sandi) Fritz of Kalamazoo, Valerie (William) Orr of Augusta and Kimberly (Steven) Frost of Plainwell; step-daughter, Karen (Gary) Kortman of Kalamazoo; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Rayma (Donald) Moore of Otsego along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Pauline and sister, Corky. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. Friends may visit with Ward's family starting at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at the Oakwood Bible Church in Kalamazoo until the time of the memorial service at 11:00 with Pastor Steve Johnson officiating. Burial of ashes will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego at a later time. Contributions in memory of Ward may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com