Michael Fritz

Michael Allen Fritz was born on May 7, 1963, at Pipestone County Hospital in Pipestone, Minnesota to Alvin Leroy and June Muriel (Kreun) Fritz. He was raised on the family farm near Woodstock, Minnesota. From an early age, Mike learned the value of hard work, spending his childhood helping with farm chores and enjoying the simple pleasures of growing up in the country. He attended Ruthton Public School in Ruthton, Minnesota where he completed his education. In 1980, he began farming full-time, building a life centered around hard work and caring for his family’s operation. In 1992, Mike expanded his career by working for Double O Trucking in Omaha, Nebraska. Before long, he purchased his own truck and became an owner-operator, combining his love of farming with trucking. In 2015, he once again added trucking to his daily routine, working for D.D. Gravel, where he drove a ten-wheel dump truck for 11 years—all while continuing to farm full-time. Mike’s work ethic was unmatched, and he rarely slowed down. In 2020, he began facing ongoing health challenges, yet he remained as determined as ever. Mike passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota at 63 years, 2 months and 25 days.

Mike was a member of Woodstock Community Church. Though he jokingly referred to himself as a “third-row chair warmer,” his faith remained an important part of his life. Always looking for ways to improve and grow the family farming operation, Mike enjoyed attending farm auctions and browsing online sales for equipment. He always enjoyed the chance to gather with friends and family for meals and the conversations and laughter that came with those moments. He also enjoyed attending car shows and escaping the cold Minnesota winters by traveling south whenever he could. Those who knew Mike will remember his unmistakable dry, one-line sense of humor. He had a way of delivering the perfect side-eye, often followed by a sly smile.

Mike is lovingly remembered by his siblings, LeRoy (Jane) Fritz of Murray County, Minnesota, Barbara (Rodney) Obbink of Edgerton, Minnesota and Sandra (Kevin) Fonder of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and 6 nephews and 4 nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and June Fritz.

Mike's Funeral Service will be livestreamed through the Woodstock Community Church. Follow the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J195PugSOWA