Mary Fritz, 69

Nov. 5, 1951 —

Nov. 18, 2020

 

PROTIVIN - Mary Fritz, age 69, of Protivin, Iowa, died on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2020, at MercyOne Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Fr. Jacob Rouse officiating.  Burial was in the church cemetery.  

Mary Lou Riha was born on Nov. 5, 1951, in Decorah, Iowa, the daughter of Clarence Sr. and Verena (Schneberger) Riha. She graduated from Turkey Valley Community School in 1970.  She then attended NICC in Calmar and graduated with a degree in interior decoration.

Set up on a blind date by friends at Mabel Steam Engine Days in 1968, she met her future husband, Ronald “Ron” Fritz.  On Aug. 11, 1973, Mary was united to Ron at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin.  The couple lived in Little Turkey, Iowa; New Hampton, Iowa; and eventually made their home in Protivin, where they have been since 1976. 

Mary worked for Sara Lee for 28 years, until its closing in 2000.  She then went to NICC in Calmar and received her Computer Application Technician diploma in 2001.  She worked for Wal-Mart, retiring after seven years due to her health.

She enjoyed going out with friends, either to go “find a bargain” or to eat – sometimes being gone all day.  Mary kept her hands busy making crafts and floral decorations, liked watching birds, especially cardinals, and enjoyed the Hallmark channel.  

Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.  She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Holly Hobby Homemakers Club, Birthday Club and American Legion Auxiliary. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Ron; her son, Chad (Michele) Fritz of Sioux Falls, S.D. and their children, Mason and Chloe; son, Aaron Fritz of Newton, Iowa and his children, Keisha and Leah; daughter, Lisa (Chris) Kimball of Cresco, Iowa; sister, Betty Nierling of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; brother, Clarence Jr. “Bud” (Sandy) Riha of Harpers Ferry, Iowa; brother-in-law, Joe (Venita) Fritz of Arnold, Mo.; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Stan (Bette) Riha; brother-in-law, Jerry Nierling; and great-niece, Kirsten Thulson.