Obituary

Jack Frederick Fritzsche
August 22, 1934 — February 12, 2025
Washington Twp.
FRITZSCHE, Jack Frederick, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community leader, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was 90 years old.

Jack was born on August 22, 1934, in Dayton, Ohio, and grew up with his brother and three sisters on a farm. His childhood was filled with hard work and a strong sense of family. He spent his days milking cows, caring for chickens, and tending to an apple, peach, and pear tree orchard. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged early in his life as he sold produce out of the trunk of their car on 3rd Street.

Jack graduated from West Alexandria High School in 1952 and earned a degree from Washington Missionary College in 1956. He married the love of his life, Barbara Neff, in 1955, and they moved to Dayton in 1956. Jack worked for a CPA firm and then at Standard Register before founding Century Propane, which he operated for many years. Their daughter, Robin, was born in 1959. Jack and Barbara worked together until his retirement in 2021.

Jack’s loving wife, Barbara, daughter Robin Fritzsche-Colquhoun, son-in-law Wayde Colquhoun, and cherished grandchildren, Ian and Olivia Colquhoun, carry on his legacy. He also leaves behind many nephews, nieces, and dear friends.

Jack loved growing tulips. His yard was always bursting with vibrant colors each spring, and he became known in the community as “The Tulip Man” for his dedication to cultivating countless varieties. He planted over 50,000 tulips in some years and enjoyed sharing his garden with his neighbors.

A man of deep faith, Jack strongly believed in community and was always striving to make a difference through his work and service. His leadership extended to many organizations, including the Rotary and the Ohio Propane Gas Association committees. He served on Spring Valley Academy, Kettering Medical Center, and Kettering College boards for decades, contributing his time, energy, and financial support to ensure their success.

Jack’s commitment to the community was evident in his frequent gatherings, whether at Dino’s Pizza on Saturday nights, potluck dinners in the yard after church, or hosting young people for vespers and haystacks. His mission was to care for those in need, and he gave generously, whether through sponsoring students, providing material assistance, or organizing efforts to support organizations like Good Neighbor House. He had a heart as big as his faith, always eager to lend a hand and encourage those around him.

His love for family was unmatched. Jack was incredibly proud of his grandchildren, Ian and Olivia Colquhoun, whom he adored and often bragged about. He was known affectionately as “Uncle Jack” to many, and he enjoyed mentoring young people and providing wisdom whenever needed. His church family was also integral to his life, and he looked forward to weekly Sabbath services with them.

The family expresses their deep gratitude to the dedicated staff at Kettering Hospital, whose compassionate care made Jack’s final days comfortable. We also thank the many friends who visited to pray, sing, and offer support during this time. Jack’s passing was peaceful, and he fell asleep in Jesus, surrounded by love.

There will be a private graveside service at David Cemetery. A concert in his honor, titled “Homecoming,” will take place at Spring Valley Academy in the Fritzsche Center for Worship and the Performing Arts on April 26 at 7:00 pm. Jack was passionate about Christian education throughout his life. Instead of flowers, please donate to Spring Valley Academy’s Jack Fritzsche Memorial Fund, c/o Angela Peach, 1461 E. Spring Valley Pike, Centerville, Ohio 45458

Jack’s life was one of faith, love, and service. He leaves a legacy of kindness, community, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. We look forward to being reunited when Jesus returns. He will be deeply missed but always remembered with gratitude and affection.