Frederic "Fritz" Lancaster Perry

Frederic "Fritz" Lancaster Perry, age 43, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Fritz was born September 4, 1977, in Fort Wayne, IN, the son of Frederic Gilworth "Gil" Perry and Susan Gene Lancaster Perry. Fritz graduated high school from Fort Wayne Community Schools in 1998. He attended First Presbyterian Church and was formerly affiliated with the respite program at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church. Fritz’s accomplishments in life are a shining example of what’s truly important. He loved unconditionally, delighted in simple pleasures, and persevered through significant challenges with unmatched strength. Fritz possessed an innocent – albeit ornery – spirit which was felt by everyone around him. Life with Fritz wasn’t clouded by judgment or greed, although he might not share his root beer with you. Among Fritz’s many joys and interests, he loved all things that go and basked in time outdoors, especially at the family’s centennial lake cottage on Webster Lake. One of the greatest gifts he offered was his laugh – the world’s best. For someone who couldn’t speak and had a multitude of challenging diagnoses, Fritz left an indelible mark on this world. Fritz is survived by his parents, Frederic Gilworth Perry and Susan Gene Lancaster Perry; siblings, Andrea (George) Heller of Fort Wayne, IN, William (Heidijo) Elyea of Naperville, IL, Heidi (Chris) Schulenberg of Fort Wayne, IN, and Elizabeth (Jack) Perry Patton of Fort Wayne, IN; and 16 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. Frederic Ginther and Sarah Gilworth Perry; and Walter Eugene and Bethel Gardner Lancaster; uncles, John Walter Lancaster; and Bassett Buckley Nix. The funeral service is 3:00 p.m. on Friday, September 17, 2021, at First Presbyterian Church, 300 West Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, with a reception following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, benefitting the Children, Youth and Family ministry or the charity of your choice. To carry forward his legacy, when you see someone different from yourself, don’t turn away. Smile and say, “hello!” Fritz knew no strangers and enjoyed making new friends so perhaps you’ll be blessed to meet someone like him.