Carol Ann Fritz, 75, of Mansfield, passed away at OhioHealth Mansfield on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was one of three children born August 2, 1950, to Wilbert and Edna (Juergens) Gilbert. Carol graduated from Mansfield Senior High and later moved to Kansas after accepting a job promotion with Kemper Insurance.
Carol married Dale Fritz, and they spent 40 wonderful years together where many fond memories were shared in the camper, on the houseboat, and getting dressed up for an evening out at a fancy restaurant. She was known for her love of crafts, including diamond dots, needlepoint, knitting, and cross-stitch. She had a special knack for decorating her home and took considerable pride in her beautiful gardens. Carol enjoyed playing cards and loved spending time playing games on her computer. The last 2½ years of her life, she made cherished memories playing Bingo with her sisters.
Carol had a deep love for animals, and over the years, she cared for many dogs and cats with her husband, Dale, always taking special delight in feeding the birds. Carol was an active and devoted member of the First English Lutheran Church of Mansfield from an early age, where she participated in various church activities and shared her talents with the community.
She is survived by her sisters: Betty Wilson and Mary (Fred) Shaffer; her niece and nephews, Cindy (DeWayne) Schneider, Darrin Wilson, Danny Wilson II, and David (Julie) Greer; her stepdaughter, Mary Mehrtens; and many grand nieces and nephews.
Carol was preceded in death by both of her parents; her beloved husband, Allen “Dale” Fritz; her nephew, Marcus Wilson; and her brother-in-law, Danny Wilson.
Family and friends may gather from 10:00-11:00 am on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond St. The memorial service will follow at 11:00 am. She will be laid to rest in Mansfield Cemetery following services. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in honor of Carol to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
