Frank Fritz, the beloved co-host of the hit actuality collection American Pickers, captured the hearts of followers together with his ardour for antiques and distinctive finds. Identified for his adventurous spirit and eager eye for worthwhile collectibles, Fritz’s journey on this planet of selecting left a long-lasting affect. Tragically, he handed away on the age of 60 on Monday, September 30, in accordance with his former co-star Mike Wolfe. This information has prompted many to replicate on his contributions to the present and the legacy he leaves behind.
Listed below are 5 issues to find out about Fritz.
Early Curiosity in Gathering
Born on October 11, 1965, in Davenport, Iowa, Fritz developed an curiosity in accumulating at a younger age, influenced by his household’s historical past of treasure searching.
Earlier than his tv profession, he owned a enterprise referred to as Frank Fritz Finds, the place he purchased and offered antiques. His experience in restoration allowed him to guage and improve the gadgets he found on the present.
Premiere of American Pickers
Fritz started co-hosting American Pickers when it premiered in January 2010. The present turned successful, showcasing his and Wolfe’s adventures as they scoured the nation for distinctive antiques.
A Passionate Bike Fanatic
Past antiques, Fritz was an avid motorbike fanatic. He often shared his ardour for bikes on the present and loved driving in his private life.
He was additionally inducted into the Sturgis Bike Museum Corridor of Fame in 2019. Through the induction ceremony on August 8 of that 12 months, Fritz informed the Black Hills Pioneer, “That is an honor that I’ll proudly speak about for the remainder of my life.”
Departure from American Pickers in July 2021
The Historical past Channel introduced Fritz’s departure from the collection in July 2021, shortly after Fritz claimed to The Solar that he hadn’t “talked to Mike in two years.” Wolfe reacted to the shakeup in an announcement on the time.
“I’ve identified Frank for so long as I can bear in mind, he’s been like a brother to me. The journey that Frank, Dani [Colby], and I began again in 2009, like all of life, has include its highs and lows, blessings and challenges, nevertheless it has additionally been probably the most rewarding,” he mentioned. “I’ll miss Frank, identical to all of you, and I pray for the easiest and all good issues for him on the subsequent a part of his journey.”
Well being Points
Fritz’s final look on American Pickers was in March 2020, shortly earlier than he underwent again surgical procedure.
“I had a few rods put in there as a consequence of lifting stuff on a regular basis. In case you watch the present, you may see who’s at all times lifting—it’s me,” he informed The Solar in July 2021. “It had been hurting for a very long time—months and months. Lastly, I had it checked out, they usually mentioned it was about prepared to separate in half, the bones in the course of my backbone. They put in a few huge rods and stitched me up with 185 stitches. I had the again harm, however I can carry now; I’m okay.”
Fritz was additionally candid about his battle with Crohn’s Illness, stating, “There’s no remedy; it’s like a dragon. Day-after-day is a crap shoot. In the future I might have a double chimichanga with scorching sauce and don’t have any downside. The following day, I may need a bit of toast and a few scrambled eggs and expertise a flare-up. I haven’t had any flare-ups just lately; I’ve been doing very well and have stop consuming.”
In July 2022, one 12 months later, Mike Wolfe introduced that Fritz had been hospitalized after struggling a stroke.
“I’ve been very non-public over the previous 12 months relating to Frank’s life and the journey he’s been on,” Wolfe wrote on Instagram. “There have been numerous opinions about my friendship with Frank and the present, however now isn’t the time to set the document straight. Now could be the time to wish for my good friend.”
He continued, “Please preserve him in your hearts and ideas. Frank, I pray greater than something that you just make it by way of this okay. I like you, buddy.”
