George Fritz

George Edward Fritz, loved and respected by all who knew him, passed away on October 5, 2021 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas, after living a full life of service and dedication. George was born October 6, 1933, in Paris, Arkansas, to the late Albert and Lillian Fritz. He is survived by his sweet, loving wife Annette, 2 daughters, Laura and spouse Jeff Watson, Lisa and spouse Brad Hixon, stepdaugther Karri and spouse John Karrant and one stepson Gary Ebbing and spouse Emily. Other survivors include two sisters, Nancy Ciulla and spouse Jimmy, Sharon Carlson and spouse Roger and one brother Albert Fritz and spouse Rosa.

George also dearly loved his three grandchildren, Morgan Karrant, Claire Ebbing and Jasper Hixon. George was blessed with numerous nieces and nephews that were so special to his heart.

George grew up in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He attended St. Anne's Catholic School and loved playing sports. Responding to the call to serve his country, George entered the US Navy and spent two years on the aircraft carrier the USS Essex during the Korean War. After serving honorably in the military, he graduated from the University of Arkansas with honors, becoming a CPA and a life long Razorback fan. George accepted a position with the IRS, where he was an exceptional, dedicated and successful civil servant for 29 years. He balanced work with a full family life, as a devoted husband, helping to raise two daughters in Dallas. He enjoyed playing softball, coaching and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and St Patrick's Catholic Church serving on numerous committees. He retired from the IRS as Assistant Regional Director of Appeals in the SW Region.

He returned to his home town of Fort Smith in 1995, where he met and married Annette Young. George loved serving in his church, Christ the King, as a Eucharistic Minister and on the Finance Committee.

The world has lost a remarkable man, loving husband, supportive father and father-in-law, “ready for an ice cream” grandpa, devoted brother and uncle and loyal friend.

Rosary service is Thursday, October 7 at 6pm in the Christ the King Chapel with visitation to follow.

Memorial Mass will be Friday, October 8 at 11am at Christ the King Church. Cremation services are entrusted to Edwards Funeral Home.

Memorials can be made to Christ the King Catholic Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com