David Marshall Fritts Sr. Obituary (1956

It is with a broken heart we announce the passing of our beloved David Marshall Fritts. He was born on November 15, 1956. He died at age of 66 on Tuesday, September 13, 2023. He married Robin L. Sprinkle on September 28, 2006. He was a loving husband, father, brother, son, and friend. He will be missed by all who had the opportunity to know him. He grew up in Ancona, IL and graduated from Woodland High School in 1974. He would go on to be a butcher for many years at Jewel-Osco in Bloomington and in Gridley at the meat locker. He then went to work at Mitsubishi Motors in Normal until it closed. Finally, he settled at Bass Pro Shop in East Peoria where he sold over 20 boats, fishing and hunting gear, firearms and ammo with his easy going personality and expertise. In his retirement years he hosted hunting expeditions for young and old to enjoy. He was very particular in how his land looked and how it benefited the wildlife that lived in it. The elusive deer he called "Blade" will live on for many more hunting stories around the cabin. He also loved working on cars, boats, tractors, and everything in between. He could fix anything! He was a true outdoorsman. He enjoyed bass tournament fishing on many lakes in the United States and could tell you where the brush piles and fish were to this day. He was an avid hunter and took pride in processing and using everything he hunted for. He was especially proud of the cabin he built meticulously all by hand. He was most happy there "on vacation" as he loved farming and taking care of God's land. He leaves behind his wife, Robin; A daughter, Brookelynn; Two sons, David II (Katie) and Nathan; His mother, Sandra; A brother, Daniel (Rosanne); Two sisters, Debra (Calvin) and Deanna. Along with three nieces, Carly, Emily, and Tara; two nephews, Cody and Drew (Ali); and two grandchildren, Adalyn and Lukas; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father David R. Fritts. He was a man of few words but held an undeniable understanding of history, politics, science, math, and nature. He always inspired others to live simply, do their best, and make a difference each day. In his honor please do something in nature, perhaps teach a child to fish or hunt, plant a tree, mow a yard, or build a birdhouse. Always make memories that last a lifetime. There will be a private celebration of life gathering in his memory this fall. Please know that he loved his family and friends very much and each of you had a special place in his heart. He would always say, "Talk later," never "bye." Until we meet again. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family in care of Robin.