Stanley Dean Fritz Sr.'s Obituary
Stanley Dean Fritz, Sr., 94, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully April 9, 2026, in his home.
Stanley was born in Bement, Illinois, on August 25, 1931, the son of Alva and Geneva (Dove) Fritz. He served proudly and honorably in the US Navy on board the USS Rochester during the Korean War. He returned home and began a long career as a clerk for Caterpillar Trac Co., retiring after 32 years. Stanley married Sylvia Foglia on June 8, 1952, and they enjoyed 72 years of marriage together until her death in 2024.
Stanley was a life-long member of Life Foursquare Church, where he served faithfully in his role as Head Usher. During his working years, he belonged to UAW Local 751. He was an avid Cardinals baseball fan. He enjoyed reading, collecting pocket knives, and traveling. Stanley and Sylvia traveled all over the country, visiting every state in the Union. They especially enjoyed the springtime in Ft. Myers, Florida.
Stanley is survived by his children Stanley D. Fritz Jr. of Decatur, Steven (Patricia) Fritz of Decatur, Karen A. (Lee) Best of Decatur, and Karol Whitmer of Decatur; 8 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son-in-law Robert L. Whitmer, and his great-granddaughter Rylee D. Britton.
Visitation for Stanley will be from 11am to 12pm on Friday, April 17, at Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow, beginning at 12pm. Burial in Graceland Cemetery will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Harristown Foursquare Church. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.moranandgoebel.com.
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